Best Classic Tuna Casserole Dinner Recipe
Introduction
Some meals just feel like home, and tuna casserole is one of them. This old-fashioned dish combines tender noodles, creamy sauce, savory tuna, and a crispy topping for a warm, comforting dinner. Simple and satisfying, it’s perfect for busy evenings when you crave something familiar.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces wide egg noodles
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 10 ounces canned tuna, drained (2 small cans)
- 2 cans condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.5 ounces each)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions. Drain and return them to the pot.
- Step 2: Add the peas, tuna, condensed soup, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese to the noodles. Stir until everything is evenly combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 3: Transfer the noodle mixture into a buttered 9×13-inch casserole dish, pressing it gently into an even layer.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Step 5: Bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
Tips & Variations
- For a creamier casserole, add an extra can of condensed soup and ½ cup more milk before baking.
- To bake from frozen, cover and cook for 45–60 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until heated through and the topping is browned.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Avoid reheating too long to keep the noodles tender and the topping crisp.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used. Add them during the mixing step just as you would frozen peas; they will add a fresh pop of flavor.
Is there a substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute cream of chicken or cream of celery soup if you prefer, though it will slightly change the flavor profile. Homemade cream sauces also work well for a fresher taste.
PrintBest Classic Tuna Casserole Dinner Recipe
This Best Classic Tuna Casserole Dinner is a warm, comforting dish featuring tender egg noodles, creamy mushroom sauce, flaky tuna, green peas, and a crispy buttery panko topping. Perfect for busy evenings, this easy-to-make casserole combines familiar pantry staples into a satisfying, cheesy bake that feels like home in every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Tuna Casserole
- 16 ounces wide egg noodles
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 10 ounces canned tuna, drained (2 small cans)
- 2 cans condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.5 ounces each)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Crispy Topping
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until tender. Drain well and return them to the pot to prepare for mixing.
- Combine ingredients: To the cooked noodles, add the frozen peas, drained canned tuna, condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble casserole: Transfer the noodle mixture into a buttered 9×13-inch casserole dish. Press the mixture gently to create an even layer across the dish.
- Prepare topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko bread crumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs are fully coated.
- Top casserole and bake: Sprinkle the buttered panko evenly over the noodle mixture in the casserole dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbling and the topping turns golden brown.
Notes
- Nutrition information is approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands.
- To bake from frozen, cover the casserole and bake for 45–60 minutes. Then uncover and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until heated through and the topping is browned.
- For a creamier and extra moist casserole, add one additional can of condensed cream of mushroom soup and ½ cup more milk before baking.
Keywords: Classic Tuna Casserole, Tuna Casserole Dinner, Comfort Food, Easy Tuna Bake, Casserole Recipes, Creamy Tuna Casserole
