Ultimate Tuna Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly nostalgic—an easy, budget-friendly comfort meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Dish Wonder: Everything bakes together in a single casserole dish—easy prep and cleanup.
Classic Comfort Food: Familiar flavors that satisfy both kids and adults.

Pantry-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Make-Ahead Option: Assemble ahead and bake when ready.
Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for meal prepping or storing leftovers.

Crowd-Pleasing: Great for family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings.
Customizable: Easy to add veggies or swap toppings.
Affordable: Feeds a family without breaking the bank.

Crunchy Topping: Crushed chips add texture and nostalgic flair.
Balanced Meal: Includes carbs, protein, and veggies in every bite.

Ingredients

1 (12 oz) package egg noodles

1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup frozen green peas
2 (5 oz) cans tuna, drained and flaked

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup chopped onion

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 cup crushed potato chips (for topping)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add egg noodles and cook for 7–8 minutes until al dente. Drain well.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked noodles, cream of mushroom soup, green peas, tuna, cheddar cheese, milk, chopped onion, and black pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.

Sprinkle crushed potato chips over the top for a crispy finish.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbling.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings And Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories Per Serving: ~390 kcal

Variations

Extra Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, carrots, or spinach.

Different Soup Base: Use cream of celery or cream of chicken for a flavor twist.
Cheese Upgrade: Swap in Monterey Jack, Swiss, or pepper jack cheese.
Pasta Options: Try rotini, penne, or whole wheat noodles.

Crunch Alternatives: Use breadcrumbs, panko, or crushed crackers instead of chips.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Lighter Version: Use low-fat milk, reduced-fat cheese, or a lighter soup base.

Herb Boost: Add dried thyme, parsley, or dill for extra flavor.
Creamier Texture: Mix in a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and soup for a celiac-friendly option.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Microwave individual portions or reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked or baked casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I Make This Ahead Of Time?

Yes, assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready.

Can I Use Fresh Tuna Instead Of Canned?

Absolutely. Cooked, flaked fresh tuna works great—just make sure it’s well-seasoned.

What Can I Use Instead Of Potato Chips?

Crushed Ritz crackers, panko, or buttered breadcrumbs all work well as toppings.

Is There A Way To Make This Creamier?

Add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the mix for an even creamier casserole.

Can I Add More Cheese?

Yes, for extra cheesy goodness, increase the cheddar or add a cheese blend.

Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead Of Tuna?

Yes, canned chicken is a great alternative if you’re not a fan of tuna.

Will This Work Without Onions?

Yes, you can skip the onions or substitute with onion powder if you prefer.

Can I Make It In A Smaller Dish?

You can halve the recipe and bake in an 8×8-inch pan for smaller portions.

Does It Need To Be Covered While Baking?

No, bake uncovered to allow the topping to get crisp and golden.

Can I Use Leftover Cooked Pasta?

Yes, just be sure it’s not overcooked so it doesn’t become mushy in the casserole.

Conclusion

This Ultimate Tuna Casserole is a timeless recipe that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With a creamy base, cheesy goodness, and a nostalgic crunchy topping, it’s sure to please the whole family. Quick to prep, easy to customize, and even better the next day, this casserole deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation.

More Comfort Classics You’ll Love

Enjoyed the creamy, nostalgic flavors of our Ultimate Tuna Casserole? Keep the cozy vibes going with more crowd-pleasing, easy-bake dinners. Try the cheesy, hearty goodness of our Hamburger Green Bean Casserole — a one-dish wonder perfect for busy nights. For something low-carb but full of flavor, the Low-Carb Tuna Melt Zucchini offers a healthier twist on classic tuna melts. If you’re craving more cheesy indulgence, don’t miss our One-Pot Cheesy Stuffed Pepper Casserole, packed with veggies, beef, and melty layers. For a touch of Southern charm, the Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower is a baked side dish that works beautifully with any main. And if easy weeknight meals are your jam, the French Onion Chicken Rice Casserole will quickly become a new favorite.

Ultimate Tuna Casserole

Author: Chef Clara

Print Recipe

Description

A creamy, cheesy, and nostalgic favorite, this tuna casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. With pantry staples and just one dish, it’s a guaranteed family hit.

Ingredients

Scale

1 (12 oz) package egg noodles
1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup frozen green peas

2 (5 oz) cans tuna, drained and flaked
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk

1/2 cup chopped onion
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 cup crushed potato chips (for topping)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook egg noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water for 7 to 8 minutes, until al dente. Drain well.

In a large bowl, mix the cooked noodles with cream of mushroom soup, green peas, tuna, cheddar cheese, milk, chopped onion, and pepper until combined.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
Top with crushed potato chips for a golden, crispy finish.

Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbling.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Use albacore tuna for a firmer texture and milder flavor.

Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and veggies.
Swap potato chips with breadcrumbs or French fried onions for variation.