Tuna Casserole Recipe: If you’re craving a warm, hearty dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this classic tuna casserole recipe is the perfect solution. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the days ahead, this cheesy tuna casserole hits the mark. Below, you’ll find the complete step-by-step recipe, storage tips, and even some community-favorite twists to try!
🧑🍳 How to Make Tuna Casserole (Quick Overview)
Making this easy tuna casserole couldn’t be simpler. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll be doing:
- Boil the noodles until tender.
- Mix the cooked noodles with cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar, tuna, peas, mushrooms, and onions.
- Transfer everything to a casserole dish.
- Top with crushed chips and more cheese.
- Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
🥗 What to Serve With Tuna Casserole
This tuna noodle casserole is filling on its own, but if you’d like to serve it with something light, a fresh green salad is a great option. Need inspiration? Check out a few of our favorite easy side salads that pair beautifully with creamy casseroles.
⏱️ Make-Ahead Tips: Can You Prepare Tuna Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! You can easily make this tuna casserole ahead of time:
- Prepare the full recipe (without baking).
- Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
- Store in the refrigerator overnight.
- When ready to eat, bake it as directed for a hot, bubbly finish.
This trick makes it a perfect dish for entertaining or busy schedules.
🧊 How to Store and Freeze Tuna Casserole
Storing Leftovers:
Store your leftover baked tuna casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to four days. Reheat in the oven for best results, or use a microwave if you’re in a hurry.
Freezing Instructions:
To freeze tuna casserole, assemble it in a disposable foil pan. Once cooled, cover it tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap again with aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven or microwave.
💬 Community Tips & Variations
Our readers love this recipe and have shared some great ideas:
“My family loved it! I used toasted bread crumbs instead of potato chips on top, and it was amazing.” – Christel Thomas
“This is the best tuna casserole I’ve made. The flavor was spot on, and it tasted even better the next day!” – BSetterberg
“I double the tuna, peas, and onion to cut down on the noodles. My whole family loves this version.” – Katie
Try swapping out the chips for crushed Ritz crackers or seasoned breadcrumbs for a fun twist!
🍲 Ingredients for Classic Tuna Casserole
- 1 (12 oz) package egg noodles
- 2 (10.5 oz) cans condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese (divided)
- 2 (5 oz) cans tuna, drained
- 1 cup frozen green peas
- ½ (4.5 oz) can sliced mushrooms
- ¼ cup chopped onion
- 1 cup crushed potato chips
🧑🍳 Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a boil. Cook egg noodles for 7–9 minutes or until al dente, then drain.
- In a large bowl, mix the noodles, mushroom soup, 1 cup shredded cheese, drained tuna, peas, mushrooms, and onions until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the top with crushed potato chips and the remaining 1 cup of cheese.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homemade tuna casserole!
🧮 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 595
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Protein: 32g
- Sodium: 1061mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Calcium: 319mg
- Iron: 5mg
- Potassium: 602mg
(Based on a 6-serving recipe. Daily values may vary depending on your diet.)
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Tuna Casserole
- It’s an affordable family meal using pantry staples.
- Super easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.
- Freezer-friendly and great for meal prep.
- Comforting, creamy, and full of flavor.
Ready to dig in? Whether you’re making it for the first time or adding your own twist, this easy tuna casserole is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Also Read: Chopped Salad with Creamy Buttermilk Dressing – A Fresh and Flavorful Delight