Why You’ll Love this Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t break the bank or eat up your precious time, this classic tuna noodle casserole is about to become your new best friend.
I’m talking creamy, savory goodness that comes together in just minutes before the oven does all the heavy lifting.
The combination of flaky tuna, tender egg noodles, and that crispy cheese topping? Pure magic.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—got some leftover veggies? Toss ’em in!
Need to feed a crowd? Just double the recipe.
Who knew something so simple could be so satisfying?
What Ingredients are in Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole?
To make this nostalgic, comforting dish, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients that you probably already have hanging out in your pantry and fridge. The beauty of tuna noodle casserole lies in its perfect balance of creamy, savory goodness with tender noodles and flaky tuna, all topped with a crunchy, cheesy crust that gets golden brown in the oven. Ready for the shopping list? Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 1 can (10½ ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons chopped pimiento
- 1 cup cooked peas
- 2 cans (6 ounces each) tuna, drained and flaked
- 2 cups hot cooked egg noodles (about 1 cup uncooked)
- 2 tablespoons dry breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
When shopping for these ingredients, quality does matter—especially for the tuna. I recommend solid white albacore for the best texture and flavor, but chunk light works perfectly fine too if you’re watching your budget. The egg noodles are traditional, but in a pinch, other pasta shapes like rotini or bow ties can work just as well. And while frozen peas are totally fine (and what I typically use), fresh peas in season would be an absolute dream in this casserole. The breadcrumb topping might seem optional, but trust me, that extra crunch takes this humble casserole from good to “can I’ve seconds, please?”
How to Make this Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
Making this comforting tuna noodle casserole couldn’t be simpler, and that’s honestly part of its enduring charm. Start by cooking about 1 cup of egg noodles according to the package directions until they’re just tender—remember, they’ll continue cooking a bit in the oven, so slightly al dente is perfect.
While the noodles are boiling away, preheat your oven to 400°F and grab a 1½ quart casserole dish for the assembly.
Once your noodles are cooked and drained, the magic happens in the casserole dish itself. Simply mix together one 10½ ounce can of condensed cream of mushroom soup, ½ cup milk, 2 tablespoons of chopped pimiento for color and flavor, 1 cup of cooked peas, and 2 cans (6 ounces each) of drained and flaked tuna.
Gently fold in the 2 cups of hot cooked noodles until everything is well combined. This one-dish mixing is why I love this recipe for busy weeknights—minimal cleanup!
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until everything is bubbling hot. Then comes my favorite part: the topping. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of dry breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of melted butter and ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Give the hot casserole a good stir, sprinkle this crunchy, cheesy mixture evenly over the top, and return it to the oven for 5 more minutes until the top gets golden and crispy. The contrast between the creamy interior and that crunchy topping? Pure comfort food perfection.
For those who enjoy preserving their own ingredients, a high end pickling set can produce homemade pickled vegetables that add a delicious tang when served alongside this classic casserole.
For an easier and quicker version of this recipe, consider using a premium multifunctional pressure cooker to reduce cooking time and simplify the process.
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole Substitutions and Variations
While this classic tuna noodle casserole is absolutely delicious as written, you can easily adapt it to suit your family’s tastes or whatever ingredients you happen to have on hand.
Consider swapping cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for the mushroom base. Not a pea fan? Try corn, green beans, or even broccoli florets.
For a protein switch, canned salmon works beautifully, or go vegetarian by doubling the vegetables. Almost any pasta shape functions well—rotini holds sauce nicely, and whole wheat options add nutrition.
The topping? Get creative with crushed potato chips, fried onions, or panko mixed with herbs. Honestly, the humble tuna casserole welcomes improvisation.
What to Serve with Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
Now that you’ve mastered the casserole itself, let’s talk about what goes alongside it.
I love pairing this comforting dish with a crisp garden salad—think mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the creamy casserole.
Crusty garlic bread makes the perfect companion, ideal for sopping up any sauce left on your plate.
For vegetables, steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus add a nice pop of green and nutritional balance.
Need something heartier? A side of garlic-buttered corn works wonderfully.
And remember, a chilled white wine, like Pinot Grigio, ties everything together for dinner guests.
Final Thoughts
The humble tuna noodle casserole has stood the test of time for good reason—it’s comforting, economical, and adaptable to whatever you have in your pantry.
I love how this dish transforms simple ingredients into something greater than the sum of its parts.
Whether you’re cooking for a family or meal prepping for one, this recipe delivers nostalgic flavors without fuss or fancy techniques.
The creamy sauce, tender noodles, and that crispy topping? Pure magic.
Next time you’re wondering what to make with that can of tuna, remember this classic.
Sometimes the simplest dishes bring the most comfort.
For variety, consider trying an Italian meatball soup with escarole and orzo pasta for another heartwarming meal option.
For a festive gathering, you might also enjoy making a multi-layered taco dip that offers the same crowd-pleasing, comforting quality in appetizer form.
