Easy Tuna Casserole with Green Beans is a wholesome, creamy, and comforting dish that transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying family dinner. This recipe combines tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, and crisp green beans in a rich, creamy sauce topped with golden breadcrumbs or melted cheese.

Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or make-ahead meals, it’s a balanced and hearty one-dish recipe that everyone will love.

What Is Easy Tuna Casserole with Green Beans?

This casserole is a variation of the classic tuna noodle casserole but includes fresh or canned green beans for extra texture, nutrition, and color. The dish blends cooked noodles, tuna, and vegetables with a creamy sauce—usually made with mushroom soup or homemade white sauce—and bakes to golden perfection. It’s warm, hearty, and simple, making it a timeless family favorite.

Other Popular Casserole Recipes

Reasons to Try Tuna Casserole with Green Beans

Nutritious Comfort Food – Combines protein, veggies, and carbs in one dish.
Quick and Easy – Minimal prep time with simple pantry staples.
Family Favorite – Creamy, cheesy, and packed with familiar flavors.
Perfect for Leftovers – Stores and reheats beautifully.
Customizable – Add different vegetables, cheese, or toppings to suit your taste.
Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable ingredients to create a complete meal.

Ingredients Needed to Make Tuna Casserole with Green Beans

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

Instructions to Prepare Tuna Casserole with Green Beans

Preheat the oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the noodles – Boil egg noodles in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Prepare the green beans – If using fresh beans, steam or boil them for 3–4 minutes until just tender. Drain excess water.
Make the sauce – In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth.
Mix everything together – Add cooked noodles, tuna, green beans, onion, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix well until evenly coated in the sauce.
Assemble the casserole – Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
Add the topping – Combine melted butter with breadcrumbs (or crushed chips) and sprinkle over the top. Finish with the remaining cheese.
Bake until golden – Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Cool slightly before serving – Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to help the sauce thicken and set.

What Goes Well With Tuna Casserole with Green Beans

Garlic Bread – Adds a crunchy side to soak up the creamy sauce.
Simple Green Salad – Brings freshness to balance the richness.
Mashed Potatoes – A hearty pairing that complements the creamy texture.
Coleslaw – Adds a light, tangy contrast.
Steamed Carrots – Brings color and subtle sweetness to the meal.

Key Tips for Making Tuna Casserole with Green Beans

Use al dente noodles – Keeps them firm after baking and prevents mushiness.
Drain tuna and beans well – Too much moisture can make the casserole watery.
Add sour cream – For a richer, creamier sauce texture.
Pre-cook fresh green beans – Ensures even cooking and tender texture.
Mix cheeses – Try combining cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for more flavor.
Cover with foil while baking – Keeps the casserole moist; uncover near the end for crisp topping.
Let it rest – Allow 5–10 minutes before serving for the best consistency.

Creative Variations of Tuna Casserole with Green Beans

Cheesy Delight – Add cream cheese or extra cheddar for a richer version.
Healthy Twist – Use whole-wheat noodles and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Vegetable Mix-In – Include mushrooms, peas, or diced bell peppers for added texture.
Spicy Kick – Mix in chili flakes or a bit of hot sauce.
Crunchy Topping – Swap breadcrumbs for French-fried onions or Ritz crackers.
No-Noodle Option – Replace noodles with rice or cauliflower for a lighter dish.

Storage Guidelines for Easy Tuna Casserole with Green Beans

Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze – Freeze cooled casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Defrosting – Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Avoid sogginess – Reheat uncovered to keep the topping crisp.
Label for freshness – Always mark storage dates before freezing.

Reheating Tips for Easy Tuna Casserole with Green Beans

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

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

Calories: 430 kcal
Protein: 27 g
Fat: 19 g
Carbohydrates: 34 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sodium: 710 mg
Calcium: 180 mg

FAQs

Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned in tuna casserole?

Yes, you can use fresh green beans. Blanch them in boiling water for 3–4 minutes until just tender, then drain and add to the casserole. This keeps their bright color and crisp texture without overcooking during baking.

How do you keep tuna casserole creamy and not dry?

To keep the casserole creamy, make sure to use enough sauce to coat the noodles and green beans. Adding sour cream, mayonnaise, or a little extra milk enhances creaminess. Cover the casserole with foil while baking, then uncover for the last 5 minutes to crisp the top.

Should I cook the green beans before adding them to the casserole?

Yes, if you’re using fresh or frozen green beans, they should be lightly cooked before adding. Steam or boil them for a few minutes to soften slightly. Canned green beans can be added directly since they’re already cooked.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup in tuna casserole?

If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even a homemade white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk. These alternatives still give the casserole a rich, creamy base.

Final Words

Easy Tuna Casserole with Green Beans is the ultimate comfort food that’s both delicious and wholesome. Its creamy sauce, tender noodles, and crisp green beans make it a filling, family-approved meal that’s quick to prepare and endlessly versatile.