The Best Homemade Tuna Casserole Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade tuna casserole is a comforting classic that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up, even on busy weeknights.
- Creamy and cheesy: A rich, creamy sauce with melted cheese makes every bite irresistible.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this hearty, satisfying dish.
- Budget-friendly: Made with pantry staples, it’s a wallet-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Recipe
Tuna casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This classic recipe combines tender noodles, creamy sauce, and flaky tuna for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup frozen peas
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions, then drain.
- In a large bowl, mix tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, peas, cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in cooked noodles until well combined.
- Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and melted butter, then sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Notes:
- For extra crunch, mix crushed potato chips with breadcrumbs.
- Substitute cream of celery soup for a different flavor.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking dish
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 6
Nutrition
Homemade tuna casserole provides a balanced meal with essential nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for one serving.
Calories: 350
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 600mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 25g
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my tuna casserole with a fresh side salad, especially one with crisp greens and a zesty vinaigrette. Warm, buttery garlic bread is another must-have since it soaks up the creamy casserole sauce perfectly. These sides make the meal feel complete without overshadowing the star dish.
Side Salad Pairings
When I’m serving tuna casserole, I always think about balancing its creamy richness with something fresh and crisp. A simple side salad with light greens—like romaine, spinach, or arugula—works perfectly. I love tossing in cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a sprinkle of red onion for extra crunch. Tangy dressings, like lemon vinaigrette or balsamic, cut through the casserole’s heaviness without overpowering it. Sometimes I’ll add a handful of toasted almonds or croutons for texture. It’s a quick, invigorating contrast that makes the meal feel complete without stealing the spotlight from the main dish.
Garlic Bread Options
Though it’s often seen as a sidekick, garlic bread can be a star in its own right when paired with tuna casserole. I love experimenting with garlic variations, like roasting cloves for a sweeter flavor or adding a dash of chili flakes for some heat. For bread alternatives, I’ll swap French bread for ciabatta or even slices of sourdough if I’m feeling fancy. Sometimes, I’ll brush olive oil and garlic on whole-grain baguettes for a healthier twist. Trust me, the crispy, buttery edges and garlicky aroma make it irresistible with every bite of creamy casserole.
