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A steaming hot tuna noodle casserole in a baking dish, fresh from the oven.

Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

This comforting casserole features tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, and sweet peas in a creamy sauce, topped with golden breadcrumbs and melted cheddar cheese. A timeless family favorite, it's easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 6 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large saucepan or Dutch oven
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 8 ounces Egg noodles
  • 12 ounces Canned tuna (2 cans, flaked, packed in water or oil)
  • 1 (10.75-ounce) can Cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup Milk (whole milk recommended)
  • 1 cup Frozen peas
  • 1/2 medium Onion (finely chopped)
  • 3 tablespoons Butter (divided)
  • 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour (if making sauce from scratch)
  • 1 cup Cheddar cheese (shredded)
  • 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper

Instructions
 

Cooking Steps

  • Cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente, drain, and set aside.
  • Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large saucepan and sauté chopped onion until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth, or make sauce from scratch by whisking in flour and then milk; season with salt and pepper.
  • Add flaked tuna, frozen peas, and cooked egg noodles to the sauce, stirring gently to combine.
  • Pour the mixture into a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole, then top with breadcrumbs tossed with 1 tablespoon melted butter.
  • Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving so the sauce can set.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of garlic powder or dried herbs to the sauce.