Throw tuna and egg noodles in a casserole dish and get a meal so delicious your husband will be begging for more! A budget-friendly classic.

Tuna noodle casserole is one of those dependable meals many families keep coming back to. It’s simple, filling, and made from ingredients that are often already in the pantry. On busy evenings, when there isn’t much time to plan dinner, a casserole like this can make the difference between a stressful night and a relaxed meal around the table.

Many home cooks appreciate tuna noodle casserole because it can be prepared ahead of time and baked when needed. The combination of egg noodles, tuna, and a creamy sauce creates a comforting dish that feels familiar without requiring complicated steps. It is also a practical way to stretch inexpensive ingredients into a meal that feeds several people.

Beyond convenience, this casserole remains popular because it is flexible. It can be adjusted based on what you have available, and it reheats well for lunches or second dinners later in the week.

Why Tuna Noodle Casserole Remains Popular

Classic casseroles became popular in American kitchens during the mid-20th century when canned goods and pantry staples made home cooking easier. Tuna noodle casserole quickly became a favorite because it balanced cost, nutrition, and convenience.

Even today, it continues to appeal to busy households. The recipe uses basic ingredients such as pasta, canned tuna, vegetables, and dairy products. These items are widely available and easy to store, which makes the dish practical for weeknight cooking.

Egg noodles work especially well in this recipe because their soft texture absorbs the sauce without falling apart. When baked, the casserole develops a creamy interior and a lightly crisp topping that adds contrast in every bite.

Building a Balanced Casserole

A good tuna noodle casserole is about balance. The noodles provide structure, the tuna adds protein, and the sauce ties everything together. Small additions such as celery, onion, and peas help create a more complete flavor without making the recipe complicated.

The creamy base typically combines condensed soup and milk, which creates a smooth texture. Adding a small amount of cheese may improve richness and help the casserole brown nicely in the oven.

A simple topping made from buttered crumbs or crushed crackers creates a crisp finish that contrasts with the creamy filling underneath. This texture difference is part of what makes the dish satisfying.

Ingredients for Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

Servings: 6

• 8 oz wide egg noodles
• 2 (5 oz) cans tuna in water, drained
• 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley or thyme
• 1 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Cooking spray or butter for greasing

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook the egg noodles in salted water until slightly underdone. This helps prevent the casserole from becoming too soft during baking. Drain and set aside.

In a large bowl, mix the condensed soup and milk until smooth. Stir in the sour cream if using, along with half of the cheese and the seasonings.

Add the tuna, peas, celery, and onion. Stir gently until evenly combined.

Fold in the cooked noodles and mix until coated with sauce.

Transfer the mixture into the baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.

Mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbling and lightly browned. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.

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