This Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole is the ultimate in cozy, affordable comfort food. Made with pantry staples like canned tuna, egg noodles, and cream of mushroom soup, it’s an easy one-dish dinner that delivers creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and kid-approved flavor—all baked to perfection in under an hour.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Budget-friendly: Made with low-cost ingredients
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Family-approved: Creamy, cheesy, and kid-friendly
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Quick prep: Just 10 minutes of hands-on time
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Freezer-friendly: Perfect for make-ahead meals
Ingredients Breakdown
Base Ingredients:
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8 oz egg noodles – Soft and comforting, the classic base for any tuna casserole.
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2 cans tuna, drained – A budget-friendly protein that’s mild and satisfying.
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1 can cream of mushroom soup – Adds creaminess and savory depth to the sauce.
Creamy Add-Ins:
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melty, sharp cheese that brings creamy richness.
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1 cup frozen peas – A pop of color and subtle sweetness for balance.
Seasoning:
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Salt and pepper to taste – Simple but essential for flavor balance.
Topping:
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs – Creates a crispy, golden crust for contrast.
Expert Tips & Tricks
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Want it extra creamy? Add ½ cup sour cream or a splash of milk to the tuna mixture.
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Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
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Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a flavor twist.
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Add sautéed onions or mushrooms for more depth.
Tasty Variations
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Tuna-Free Option: Swap the tuna for cooked chicken or turkey.
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Low-Carb Version: Use cooked spaghetti squash or cauliflower rice.
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Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free noodles and soup.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
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Pair with a green salad or steamed broccoli for balance.
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Serve with buttery garlic bread or dinner rolls for a hearty meal.
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Add a glass of white wine like Chardonnay for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
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Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freeze the fully baked casserole for up to 2 months—wrap tightly in foil.
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Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual portions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Add breadcrumbs just before baking.
What’s the best tuna to use?
Chunk light or solid white albacore tuna in water both work well. Just drain thoroughly before mixing.
Can I use a different soup?
Absolutely. Cream of celery or cream of chicken also work for a different flavor profile.