Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe for Busy Weeknights

Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole is that warm hug of a dish we all need after a long, chaotic day. Whether you’re juggling work, kids, or just that constant “what’s-for-dinner” pressure, this classic recipe has your back. It’s creamy, cheesy, budget-friendly, and makes the house smell like something magical is going on in the kitchen.

What’s even better? It’s ready in under an hour, which is basically a gift from the dinner gods. Made with pantry staples like egg noodles, canned tuna, and condensed soup, this creamy tuna noodle casserole hits the sweet spot between comfort and convenience. Toss in some peas for a pop of green (and a nod to nutrition), and you’ve got a dish that’s nostalgic, satisfying, and oh-so-easy to whip up—even when your brain’s running on fumes.

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What is Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole?

Creamy tuna noodle casserole is one of those old-school meals that never really goes out of style. You probably grew up on it, or at least passed it in the grocery store frozen food aisle. It’s a baked pasta dish made with egg noodles, canned tuna, veggies like peas and celery, and a creamy, cheesy mushroom-based sauce.

The whole thing gets topped with buttery breadcrumbs and extra cheddar, then baked until golden and bubbly. Think of it as the cozy cousin of mac and cheese—just with more protein and a retro flair. What makes it so special is its versatility: it’s easy to adapt with what you’ve got in the fridge. It’s also one of those magical recipes that somehow gets better as leftovers (hello, next-day lunch win!).

Reasons to Try Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole

First of all, creamy tuna noodle casserole is ridiculously easy to make—like, throw-it-together-on-a-Wednesday kind of easy. Got 15 minutes and a can of tuna? You’re halfway there. Second, it’s budget-friendly, which makes it a weeknight hero for anyone feeding a family (or trying not to DoorDash… again).

Plus, picky eaters tend to gobble it up—maybe it’s the noodles, maybe it’s the cheese, maybe it’s that crispy topping (okay, it’s probably all of the above). It’s also one of those rare dishes that tastes like comfort food but secretly sneaks in some veggies and protein. And if you’re the meal-prepping type, it holds up beautifully in the fridge and freezer. Bonus: it smells amazing while baking. Like, “neighbors-are-jealous” level amazing.

Ingredients Needed to Make Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole

For the Casserole:

• 3 cups dry egg noodles (about 6 oz)
• 1 tbsp butter (for sautéing)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 ribs celery, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas (thawed)
• 5–6 oz canned tuna (drained)
• 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

For the Crumb Topping:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions to Make Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole

If you’ve ever stared at a can of tuna wondering what to do with it, this step-by-step guide to making creamy tuna noodle casserole is your answer. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just trying to get dinner on the table fast, these detailed instructions walk you through every part of the process—no guesswork required. Let’s break it down so even if it’s your first time making a casserole, you’ll nail it like a pro.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

Before diving into the rest, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gives it plenty of time to get hot while you assemble everything. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish (or similar size), and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a touch of butter. This helps keep the casserole from sticking and makes cleanup way easier later.

Tip: For more on prepping casserole dishes and smart baking tips, check out our easy hamburger potato casserole—it shares a lot of the same prep fundamentals.

Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add about 3 cups of dry egg noodles (roughly 6 oz) and cook them just until al dente—that means they’re cooked but still have a little bite. This usually takes 7–9 minutes, but check your noodle package for guidance. Once done, drain the noodles using a colander and set them aside.

Why it matters: Overcooking noodles now means they’ll turn to mush in the oven. Getting them just right is key to nailing this step-by-step recipe.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

While the noodles cook, heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in your diced onion and celery (about 1 small onion and 2 ribs of celery) and sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until they start to soften and smell amazing. Add in 1 cup of thawed frozen peas and cook for another minute just to warm them through.

Step-by-step flavor builder: These veggies not only add flavor but also a bit of texture and color that make the casserole more visually appealing. If you’re out of celery or peas, check our guide on ingredient substitutions for clever swaps.

Step 4: Add the Tuna and Create the Creamy Sauce

Open and drain 1 can (5–6 oz) of tuna, then gently flake it into the skillet with the veggies. Stir it around to evenly distribute.

Now add the creamy base: pour in 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom soup and 1 cup of milk. Stir everything together until well combined. Once the sauce is heated through (don’t boil it), sprinkle in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley.

Step-by-step sauce trick: Stir gently until the cheese melts into the sauce and creates that rich, velvety texture. The smell at this point? Pure comfort food.

Need a dairy-free version? See our coconut-lime chicken and rice recipe for creamy alternatives using coconut milk or other plant-based options.

Step 5: Combine the Noodles and Sauce

Once your cheese sauce is ready, gently fold in the cooked egg noodles. Use a spatula or large spoon to mix until every noodle is coated in creamy goodness. This is where it starts looking like the casserole you’ve been craving.

Step-by-step assembly tip: Be gentle with the noodles—they’ve worked hard and deserve to stay intact. Overmixing can turn them to mush.

Step 6: Transfer to the Baking Dish

Spoon the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly using the back of your spoon or spatula. You want a nice, even layer so the topping bakes up golden and crisp across the whole dish.

Step 7: Make and Add the Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon of melted butter, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley. Stir it all together until the crumbs are nicely coated.

Evenly sprinkle this crumb mixture over the top of your casserole. This is what gives it that beautiful golden, cheesy crust that makes everyone fight for the corner piece.

Crumb topping tip: Want to mix things up? Swap panko for crushed Ritz crackers or even potato chips like we do in our tater tot casserole with ground beef—total crowd-pleaser.

Step 8: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Place your casserole in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling like crazy. That’s your signal that all the flavors have melded together and your dinner is ready to shine.

Step-by-step oven advice: If the topping starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover with foil and let it finish baking. Let it cool for 5–10 minutes before serving so it sets up and doesn’t burn any tongues (we’ve all been there).

What to Serve with Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Honestly, this casserole can hold its own. But if you’re looking to round out the meal, a crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great contrast to the creamy richness. Some roasted veggies—like green beans or broccoli—also pair beautifully. Want to keep things casual? Serve it with a side of garlic bread or even air fryer buttery parmesan garlic wings for a comforting, indulgent feast. And if you’re feeding a crowd, consider doubling the recipe and offering a light dessert—maybe a fruit salad or lemon bars—to keep things balanced.

Key Tips for Making Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole

• Don’t overcook the noodles. Al dente is your friend here. They’ll finish cooking in the oven, and nobody likes mushy noodles.
• Use good-quality canned tuna. It really makes a difference in flavor. Solid white albacore is a solid choice.
• Add veggies you like. No peas? Swap in corn or chopped spinach. Bell peppers or mushrooms work too.
• Mix the topping separately. Don’t just sprinkle dry breadcrumbs on top—mix them with butter and cheese for that perfect crunch.
• Let it rest before digging in. It’ll thicken as it cools and be easier to slice and serve.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Got leftovers? You’re in luck—creamy tuna noodle casserole stores like a champ. Just let it cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for 3–4 days. To reheat, cover it with foil and pop it in a 350°F oven for about 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes. If you’re freezing it, wrap the whole (unbaked) casserole tightly in foil and freeze up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and cook as usual—maybe add a few extra minutes if it’s still chilly in the center.

FAQs

Can I use something other than cream of mushroom soup?
Yep! Cream of celery or chicken works too, or you can make a homemade white sauce if you’re feeling fancy.

Can I use fresh veggies instead of frozen peas?
Absolutely. Just sauté them along with the onion and celery until tender.

Is it okay to skip the breadcrumb topping?
You can, but you’ll miss that amazing crunch. Crushed crackers or potato chips also work great!

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free noodles, a gluten-free condensed soup, and swap the panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Final Thoughts

Creamy tuna noodle casserole is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table—no arm-twisting required. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly flexible, whether you’re feeding a family or just want leftovers that actually taste good. This dish is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. So the next time life feels a little too hectic (or your fridge is looking a little too empty), you’ll know exactly what to make. And if you loved this, you might also want to check out our crockpot cheesesteak potato casserole for another easy family favorite that brings all the cozy vibes.

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