Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole is the ultimate in classic comfort food. It’s simple to prepare, uses ingredients you likely already have on hand, and feeds a crowd. The creamy sauce, cheesy topping, and tender noodles come together with the savory flavor of tuna for a dish that’s cozy, filling, and timeless. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead option for busy weeknights or potlucks.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Egg noodles
- Canned tuna in water (drained)
- Cream of mushroom soup (or cream of celery soup)
- Milk
- Frozen peas
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Onion (finely chopped)
- Garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper
- Butter
- Optional topping: crushed potato chips, breadcrumbs, or French-fried onions
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chopped onion. Stir until smooth.
- Add the tuna, cooked noodles, peas, and half of the shredded cheese to the bowl. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Add optional topping like crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs if desired.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Use different soups: Substitute cream of celery or cream of chicken for a different flavor profile.
- Add vegetables: Mix in mushrooms, chopped bell peppers, or corn for added texture.
- Switch up the cheese: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend for variety.
- Make it spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free noodles: Adapt the recipe to your dietary preferences.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave individual portions or bake in a 350°F oven until heated through.
This casserole also freezes well. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5–10 extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Can I use fresh tuna?
You can, but canned tuna is traditional and gives the dish its classic flavor and texture.
What noodles are best for this recipe?
Wide egg noodles are ideal, but you can also use rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni.
Is there a dairy-free version?
Yes, use a dairy-free cream soup and cheese substitute. Also, choose plant-based milk.
Can I omit the peas?
Absolutely. You can leave them out or substitute with corn, broccoli, or green beans.
How can I make it crispier on top?
Add a topping of crushed potato chips, buttered breadcrumbs, or French-fried onions before baking.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze it before or after baking. Just make sure it’s wrapped well to prevent freezer burn.
Do I need to cook the peas beforehand?
No, frozen peas can go in straight from the freezer; they’ll cook in the oven.
Can I add more protein?
Yes, mix in cooked chicken or add extra tuna for a protein boost.
Why is my casserole too dry?
Be sure not to overbake it, and check that the noodle-to-sauce ratio is balanced. Add a bit more milk if needed.
Conclusion
Old-Fashioned Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a beloved classic that never goes out of style. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, it’s the perfect dish to bring warmth and comfort to your table. Whether you’re looking for an easy family meal or a nostalgic bite of the past, this casserole delivers every time.
PrintOld-Fashioned Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Old-Fashioned Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a creamy, comforting classic made with tender egg noodles, canned tuna, peas, and melty cheese. It’s a budget-friendly, nostalgic dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kosher
Ingredients
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of celery)
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing or optional use in topping)
- Optional topping: 1 cup crushed potato chips, breadcrumbs, or French-fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chopped onion until smooth.
- Stir in tuna, cooked noodles, peas, and 3/4 cup of the shredded cheese until evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and add optional topping if desired.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Swap cream of mushroom with cream of celery or chicken for different flavors.
- Add veggies like corn, mushrooms, or bell peppers for variety.
- Top with chips, breadcrumbs, or fried onions for a crunchy finish.
- Make ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
- Use gluten-free noodles and soup for a GF version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
