If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dinner that comes together without any hassle, you have to try this Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe. It’s the perfect combination of tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, and a creamy mushroom sauce all wrapped up with a crisp, buttery breadcrumb topping. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend, this dish is a reliable crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows layer of light yellow cooked pasta in a white colander at the bottom right corner; above the pasta is a white cutting board with fresh green parsley spread across it, and two open cans of light beige tuna next to a silver scoop filled with sliced green olives and small red peppers; to the top left of the cutting board is a white bowl filled with bright green peas, and next to it a pot of thick creamy white sauce with a wooden spoon resting inside; at the top right corner, there are two white bowls, one overflowing with shredded white cheese and the other with a fine beige powder; small white bowls at the bottom left contain ground black pepper and white salt; all are placed on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients. Each ingredient plays a key role, bringing texture, flavor, and color to the dish without requiring any obscure items from the store.

3 cups egg noodles: These provide the perfect tender base that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and helps gently cook the veggies to tender perfection.
1 small onion (diced): Brings a sweet, aromatic depth that balances the savory elements.
2 ribs celery (diced): Adds a subtle crunch and freshness to the mix.
⅔ cup frozen peas (thawed): Small pops of sweet color that brighten up every bite.
1 (5 ounce) can tuna (drained): The star protein that’s light and flaky, boosting heartiness.
1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: Creamy and flavorful glue that holds everything together.
⅓ cup milk: Loosens the sauce for a perfectly creamy consistency.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce adding savory sharpness and richness.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley): Adds a fresh, herbal note to balance the creaminess.
½ cup panko bread crumbs: Creates a golden, crunchy topping that’s simply irresistible.
1 tablespoon melted butter: Combines with breadcrumbs to achieve that perfect crisp texture on top.
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping): Sprinkled on top for extra cheesy, gooey goodness under the crust.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley) (for topping): For a fresh finishing touch that looks as good as it tastes.

How to Make Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe

A clear glass bowl holds four main layers of food, placed on a white marbled surface: the bottom layer is yellow cooked curly egg noodles; above it is a creamy white sauce spread unevenly; on top of the sauce are bright green peas, light pink shredded cooked meat, sliced green olives, small pieces of red peppers, and a sprinkle of shredded white cheese and black pepper; a wooden spoon with white sauce on its side rests in the bowl from the top right. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Prepare the Topping

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F. Mix the panko bread crumbs, melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, and parsley together in a small bowl. This topping will bake into a crunchy, golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole underneath, so set it aside for now.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Boil the egg noodles until they are just al dente, usually about the time the package suggests. Drain them well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This ensures the noodles hold their shape and don’t get mushy in the casserole—crucial for the perfect texture.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and cook the diced onion and celery until they are tender and fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. This softens the veggies and brings out their natural sweetness, which adds a delicious base flavor to the dish.

Step 4: Combine the Casserole Ingredients

In a large bowl, gently mix together the cooked noodles, sautéed onion and celery, thawed peas, cream of mushroom soup, milk, shredded cheese, drained tuna, and parsley. Stir just until everything is evenly combined, making sure the ingredients are well coated with the creamy mixture for that luscious texture.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Spread the mixture evenly into a 2-quart casserole dish. Sprinkle your prepared crumb topping evenly over the entire surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is beautifully golden. The bubbling sauce and crispy crust make this dish especially inviting.

How to Serve Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

To make your Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe look as good as it tastes, sprinkle a little extra chopped fresh parsley or even some finely grated parmesan cheese just before serving. This simple touch adds a burst of color and an additional layer of flavor that will wow anyone at the table.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp, green salads to balance the creamy richness. Try a tangy vinaigrette-dressed mixed greens salad or steamed roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for added freshness and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant twist, serve the Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins and broil the topping for a minute or two to get that crust extra crispy and golden. Alternatively, add a few dollops of sour cream or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top to brighten flavors when serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover tuna casserole keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure the casserole cools completely before storing to preserve texture and freshness, then simply cover and chill.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble everything, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to two months. When ready, thaw overnight and bake as directed. If freezing after baking, let it cool fully, then pack leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze similarly.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw your casserole in the fridge overnight if frozen and warm it up in a 350°F oven covered with foil to prevent drying out. For a crispy topping, remove the foil during the last few minutes of reheating to bring back its golden crunch.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of noodle for this dish?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are classic, other types like rotini or penne work well too. Just pick a noodle that holds sauce nicely and cook it al dente to avoid mushiness.

What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?

If you prefer a homemade option, you can make a simple white sauce with butter, flour, milk, and sautéed mushrooms. This will keep the casserole creamy and flavorful without using canned soup.

Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

Yes! You can reduce the cheese or use a lower-fat version, swap regular noodles for whole wheat, and add more veggies like chopped spinach or carrots to boost the nutrition and color.

Can I omit the peas if I don’t like them?

Of course! Peas are classic but optional. You can substitute with corn, diced carrots, or green beans to maintain that pop of color and slight sweetness.

How do I prevent the casserole from getting too dry?

Make sure not to overcook the noodles and use the full amount of soup and milk specified. Also, covering the casserole loosely with foil during baking for the first part helps retain moisture before crisping the topping at the end.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe has been a lifesaver and a go-to comfort treat in my kitchen, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. It’s a wonderfully cozy meal that’s simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and always satisfies. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a crowd-pleasing classic, this recipe deserves a spot in your weekly dinner rotation. Give it a try and enjoy all the creamy, cheesy goodness with every bite!