Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe for Families

Tuna casserole is the kind of dish that has it all—comfort, flavor, and ease of preparation. Whether you're feeding a family on a busy weeknight or searching for a budget-friendly recipe packed with hearty goodness, this classic casserole hits every mark.

This guide will walk you through a foolproof tuna casserole recipe, complete with tips for customization, storage, and even how to make it ahead of time. Get ready to create a dish that’s not only comforting but also a crowd-pleaser.

What Makes Tuna Casserole a Timeless Classic?

Tuna casserole has been a staple of home cooking since the mid-20th century. Its simplicity, affordability, and versatility make it a fan favorite. You can dress it up with gourmet ingredients or keep it basic—either way, it’s delicious. Plus, it’s a great way to use pantry staples like canned tuna and pasta.

Why it’s perfect for busy families:

• Quick to make with minimal prep time.
• Budget-friendly.
• Feeds a crowd with ease.
• Easy to customize with ingredients you already have.

Ingredients You'll Need

One of the beauties of tuna casserole is its flexibility, but here’s a foundational recipe to get you started:

For the Casserole:

• 2 cups cooked egg noodles
• 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping:

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko works best for crispiness)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley, grated parmesan

Feel free to experiment by adding sliced mushrooms, diced onions, or swapping peas for another favorite vegetable.

How to Make Tuna Casserole – Step-by-Step

Let’s get started with this easy, foolproof tuna casserole recipe that’s ready in just 40 minutes.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles

• Boil egg noodles in salted water for 6–8 minutes or until al dente.

Pro Tip: Don’t overcook the noodles—they’ll continue cooking in the oven.

Step 3: Create the Base Mixture

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
• Fold in the drained tuna, cooked noodles, and frozen peas (if using). Mix well to coat everything evenly.

Step 4: Layer It in the Dish

• Pour the mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

• Combine breadcrumbs and melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.

Step 6: Bake

• Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crisp.
• Optional: Broil for the last 2–3 minutes to make the topping extra crunchy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley or grated parmesan if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Customization Ideas

One of the best parts about tuna casserole is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Healthier Options: Swap cream of mushroom soup for a homemade béchamel sauce and use whole-grain noodles.
• Spice it Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the mixture.
• Gourmet Twist: Replace cheddar with gruyère or fontina cheese and add caramelized onions.

Tips for Storing and Reheating Tuna Casserole

This casserole is perfect for meal prep and keeps well for leftovers.

• Fridge Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely, then store in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer Storage: Freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating Tips: Warm individual portions in the microwave, or cover the entire casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.

Why Add This Recipe to Your Repertoire?

Tuna casserole isn’t just a meal—it’s a lifesaver for busy families looking for something quick, easy, and delicious without breaking the bank. With its rich flavors and ease of preparation, it checks all the boxes for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even some cozy comfort food.

Want to make tuna casserole even easier? Try doubling the recipe and freezing half, so you have dinner ready for a weeknight when cooking feels impossible.

Share Your Casserole Creations

We’d love to see how you’ve customized this tuna casserole recipe! Tag us on Instagram @YourBrandName with your dish, and you might be featured on our page.

Happy Cooking!