Classic Tuna Casserole is a comforting, creamy, and easy-to-make dish that never goes out of style. Made with tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, sweet peas, and a rich sauce, this casserole delivers the perfect blend of flavor and texture. Topped with golden breadcrumbs or crunchy potato chips, it’s the ultimate family-friendly meal that’s ready in no time and perfect for weeknights or potlucks.

What Is Classic Tuna Casserole?

Classic Tuna Casserole is an old-fashioned baked dish made from pantry staples like canned tuna, noodles, and cream soup. It’s a warm, creamy, and satisfying recipe that’s been a household favorite for decades. The combination of creamy sauce, pasta, and a crispy topping gives it the perfect balance of comfort and flavor.

Other Popular Casserole Recipes

Reasons to Try Classic Tuna Casserole

Quick and Easy – Ready in under an hour with simple ingredients.
Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable pantry staples like tuna and noodles.
Perfect Comfort Food – Warm, creamy, and satisfying in every bite.
Family Approved – Mild flavor that even kids enjoy.
Versatile – Easy to customize with vegetables or different cheeses.
Freezer-Friendly – Great for make-ahead dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients Needed to Make Classic Tuna Casserole

2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained and flaked
3 cups cooked egg noodles
1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup milk
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream or mayonnaise (optional for added creaminess)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips (for topping)
2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions to Prepare Classic Tuna Casserole

Cook the noodles – Boil the noodles in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the sauce – In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and seasonings. Whisk until smooth.
Combine the ingredients – Stir in the tuna, peas, onion, and cooked noodles. Mix well to evenly coat everything in the sauce.
Add cheese – Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy texture.
Transfer to baking dish – Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
Add topping – Mix breadcrumbs or crushed chips with melted butter, then sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
Bake until golden – Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned.
Cool and serve – Let it rest for a few minutes before serving for the best consistency.

What Goes Well With Classic Tuna Casserole

Green Salad – A crisp salad adds freshness to the creamy base.
Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
Steamed Broccoli – Adds color and a healthy side.
Coleslaw – Light and crunchy, it balances the richness.
Roasted Carrots – Naturally sweet and simple to prepare.

Key Tips for Making Classic Tuna Casserole

Use al dente noodles – Slightly undercook noodles so they stay firm after baking.
Drain tuna thoroughly – Keeps the sauce from becoming watery.
Add extra creaminess – Mix in a spoonful of sour cream or mayo for richer flavor.
Don’t skip the topping – Adds texture and elevates the dish.
Mix cheeses – Try combining cheddar with mozzarella for a gooey texture.
Avoid overbaking – Bake just until hot and bubbly to keep it moist.
Let it rest – Allow it to cool slightly before serving so the sauce thickens perfectly.

Creative Variations of Classic Tuna Casserole

Cheesy Delight – Add mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra gooey texture.
Healthy Twist – Use whole-grain pasta and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Veggie Boost – Add mushrooms, spinach, or diced bell peppers for more nutrition.
Spicy Kick – Mix in a dash of cayenne or chopped jalapeños for heat.
Tuna Rice Casserole – Swap noodles for cooked rice for a hearty alternative.
Crunchy Topping – Replace breadcrumbs with crushed Ritz crackers or potato chips.

Storage Guidelines for Classic Tuna Casserole

Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freezing – Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Defrosting – Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Avoid sogginess – Reheat uncovered for a crispy topping.
Label before storing – Helps keep track of freshness.

Reheating Tips for Classic Tuna Casserole

Oven Method – Reheat covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.
Microwave Method – Warm individual servings for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop Method – Heat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

Calories: 410 kcal
Protein: 26 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 34 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sodium: 690 mg
Calcium: 180 mg

FAQs

How do you make tuna casserole creamy and not dry?

To keep tuna casserole creamy, make sure there’s enough sauce to coat all the noodles. Mix in sour cream or mayonnaise along with the soup base for extra richness. Cover the casserole with foil while baking to lock in moisture, then uncover in the last 5 minutes for a golden top.

Can I use something other than cream of mushroom soup in tuna casserole?

Yes, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even a homemade white sauce made from milk, butter, and flour. Each option adds its own flavor while keeping the casserole creamy.

Should I cook the noodles before adding them to the tuna casserole?

Yes, always cook the noodles until al dente before mixing them into the casserole. Slightly undercooked noodles hold their texture during baking and prevent the dish from turning mushy.

How can I make tuna casserole more flavorful?

Enhance flavor by adding sautéed onions, garlic, or a pinch of paprika to the sauce. Mixing in shredded cheese or topping the casserole with crushed chips or buttery breadcrumbs also adds delicious depth and texture.

Final Words

Classic Tuna Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that proves simple ingredients can make something truly delicious. With its creamy sauce, tender noodles, and crunchy topping, it’s the kind of dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep, this easy casserole is a classic you’ll want to make again and again.