If you’re searching for a hearty, budget-friendly, and incredibly comforting dinner, look no further than the best tuna casserole. This timeless American classic is known for its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and nostalgic taste. Whether you’re making dinner for a busy weeknight or feeding a hungry family, tuna casserole checks every box.
Plus, it’s one of those rare dishes that gets better the next day—ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
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Why the Best Tuna Casserole Recipe Still Works Today
Tuna casserole became popular in the 1950s for a good reason—it’s:
- Inexpensive
- Pantry-friendly
- Easy to assemble
- Highly adaptable
What’s more, its combination of tuna, pasta, creamy sauce, and a crispy topping makes it appealing to both kids and adults.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
Here’s what you’ll need to make the best tuna casserole:
- 12 oz (340g) egg noodles
- 2 cans of tuna (5 ounces each) – use chunk light variety, and make sure to drain off any liquid
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups crushed potato chips (or breadcrumbs)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Boil the egg noodles in salted water until just tender (about 6–7 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Fold in the tuna, thawed peas, chopped onions, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add the cooked noodles and stir until everything is well incorporated.
- Spoon the mixture into the greased baking dish and smooth the top to create an even layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the surface, followed by the crushed potato chips or breadcrumb topping.
- Place in the oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the topping is crisp and lightly browned.
Allow the casserole to rest briefly after baking for easier serving.
Creative Variations
Tuna casserole is great because it adapts to what you have in your kitchen. Here are some variations worth trying:
- Low-carb: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Vegetarian: Replace tuna with white beans or mushrooms.
- Gourmet: Add sautéed mushrooms, a splash of white wine, and gruyère cheese.
- From scratch: Skip the canned soup and make a quick white sauce using butter, flour, and milk.
Expert Tips
- Keep the noodles slightly firm, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven.
- Gently fold the ingredients together to preserve the tuna’s flaky texture.
- Grate your cheese for better melting.
- Switch up the topping with breadcrumbs, Ritz crackers, or even fried onions for variety.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
Refrigeration: Transfer any leftovers to a tightly sealed container and keep in the fridge; they’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
- Assemble the unbaked casserole in a freezer-safe pan.
- Wrap securely with plastic wrap and foil.
- Store for up to 3 months in the freezer.
- When ready to use, let it defrost overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating: Warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F, or heat individual servings in the microwave on medium power until hot.
What to Serve with Tuna Casserole
Round out your meal with these great pairings:
- A green salad or peach arugula salad
- Crusty garlic bread or homemade garlic bread
- Steamed broccoli or roasted broccoli
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
You can! Just cook it first and flake it into chunks. However, canned tuna is far more convenient and affordable for everyday use.
Is there a healthy version of tuna casserole?
Yes—opt for low-sodium soup, whole grain noodles, and pack in extra vegetables. You can also skip the crunchy topping or use whole-grain alternatives.
Can I make this in advance?
Definitely. You can put the casserole together a day ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it.
What’s the best topping?
Crushed chips are traditional, but breadcrumbs, panko, and even cornflakes work great, depending on your desired crunch and flavor.
Final Thoughts
The best tuna casserole is all about simplicity, comfort, and a few smart ingredients that bring it all together. Whether you love it straight-up classic or with a gourmet twist, it’s one of those dishes that delivers nostalgia and satisfaction in every bite.
Pair it with your favorite sides, and it’s a full, comforting meal that’s as easy to prep as it is to love.