Old-Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole: Creamy, Cheesy & Comforting
There’s something undeniably comforting about a bubbling casserole pulled fresh from the oven. This Old-Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole is a retro favorite that never really went out of style—because it’s just that good.
It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with hearty pasta, peas, and tender tuna. Topped with a buttery cracker crust, this dish is as satisfying as it is nostalgic. It’s the perfect answer to weeknight dinners, potlucks, or feeding a hungry crowd with minimal fuss.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love a recipe that tastes like home, and this casserole delivers all those cozy vibes. It uses pantry staples, comes together fast, and bakes to golden, cheesy perfection. You can easily double the batch or freeze it for future meals—this is the kind of dish that feeds both your belly and your soul.
Ingredients
- 12 oz Egg Noodles (or your preferred pasta)
- 2 Cans (5 oz each) Tuna in Water, drained and flaked
- 1 Can (10.5 oz) Cream of Mushroom or Cream of Celery Soup
- 1 Cup Milk
- 1 Cup Frozen Peas
- 1/2 Cup Grated Cheddar Cheese
- 1/4 Cup Parmesan Cheese
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
- Salt & Pepper, to taste
- 1 Cup Crushed Buttery Crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 Tbsp Melted Butter
Ingredient Notes
- Tuna: Use solid white albacore for meatier texture or chunk light for a softer blend.
- Soup: Either mushroom or celery works—choose based on what you have or flavor preference.
- Cheese: Mix it up with mozzarella or gouda for a twist.
- Topping: Buttery crackers add crunch, but panko breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips also work!
How to Make Tuna Noodle Casserole
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
3. Mix the Base
In a large bowl, whisk together cream soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the tuna, frozen peas, cheddar cheese, and cooked noodles until fully combined.
4. Assemble the Dish
Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish. Spread evenly and top with grated Parmesan.
5. Make the Topping
In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
6. Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
7. Cool & Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a full meal.
Tips for Success
- Undercook the noodles slightly—they’ll finish softening in the oven.
- Add a splash of hot sauce or Dijon mustard for extra zip.
- Double the topping if you love extra crunch.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Make-Ahead: Assemble, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freeze: Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- Leftovers: Store in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
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Final Thoughts
Old-fashioned tuna noodle casserole is one of those meals that never goes out of style. It’s simple, hearty, and hits all the right comfort notes. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need something warm and satisfying, this casserole is here to deliver.
Tried it out? Tag @chefmaniac and share your own spin! And don’t forget to subscribe for more comforting, crowd-pleasing recipes. 🧡🍽️
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