🇺🇸 USA · Food
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
By eatmundo · July 5, 2026
🇺🇸 USA quintessential American comfort food, this casserole combines tender egg noodles, flaky canned tuna, and sweet peas in a creamy, savory sauce, often topped with crunchy breadcrumbs or cheese. It's a nostalgic, easy-to-make meal that has graced dinner tables for generations.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 8 oz egg noodles according to package directions; drain.
- 2
In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, two 5-oz cans of drained tuna, 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup milk, and 1 cup frozen peas. Season with salt and pepper.
- 3
Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- 4
In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup breadcrumbs with 2 tbsp melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole, or use 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
- 5
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- 6
Let stand for a few minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of pasta should I use for Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole?+
Traditional recipes call for medium egg noodles, which provide a tender texture and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully. You can also use elbow macaroni or other small pasta shapes if preferred.
Which type of canned tuna is best for this casserole?+
For a classic flavor and texture, use chunk light tuna in water, drained well. Albacore tuna can be used for a milder flavor and firmer texture, but avoid tuna in oil as it can make the casserole greasy.
How can I prevent my tuna noodle casserole from drying out during baking?+
Ensure your sauce is adequately moist before baking and avoid overcooking. Cover the casserole with foil for the first part of baking to retain moisture, then remove it for the last 10-15 minutes to brown the topping.
When should I add the breadcrumb topping to ensure it's crispy, not soggy or burnt?+
Add the buttered breadcrumb topping during the last 15-20 minutes of baking. This allows it to crisp up nicely without becoming soggy from the casserole's moisture or burning too early.
🇺🇸 USMundo Match
Dishes across the world that share Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole's core ingredients.
