Description
This classic Tuna Casserole Recipe is a comforting and creamy pasta bake perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. Combining tender egg noodles, savory tuna, peas, and a cheesy mushroom sauce, it’s topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust for added texture. A timeless American main course that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups frozen peas
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
Sauce & Cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
Garnish
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the casserole.
- Cook Noodles: Boil the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Mix Filling: Stir in the frozen peas, drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Combine well to create a creamy mixture.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce: Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and stir thoroughly to evenly coat the noodles with the sauce and ingredients.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the noodle mixture into it, spreading evenly.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to create a crunchy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of chicken soup if preferred.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or diced celery to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
- Use whole wheat noodles or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
