If you’re searching for a comforting, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug, look no further than this Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe. It’s a classic dish that combines tender tuna, perfectly cooked pasta, and creamy mushroom soup into one delicious bake topped with a crunchy layer of potato chips or breadcrumbs. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or need a quick go-to for busy weeknights, this tuna casserole hits all the right notes: flavorful, simple to prepare, and wonderfully nostalgic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe plays a crucial part in delivering that perfect balance of texture and taste. From the flaked tuna adding hearty protein to the peas that brighten every bite with a pop of color and freshness, every component is simple yet essential.
- Tuna: Use two cans of tuna (either in water or oil), drained and flaked to add savory, flaky seafood goodness.
- Elbow Macaroni or Egg Noodles: Three cups cooked provide the comforting carb base that soaks up all the creamy flavors.
- Frozen Peas: One cup adds a sweet, fresh contrast and lovely green color to the casserole.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This 10.5-ounce can creates the creamy, luscious sauce that binds everything together.
- Milk: Half a cup is added to adjust the sauce consistency to creamy perfection without being runny.
- Mayonnaise: Half a cup boosts creaminess and adds a subtle tang for depth of flavor.
- Garlic Powder: One teaspoon enriches the dish with a hint of savory warmth.
- Onion Powder: Half a teaspoon layers in subtle sweetness and complexity.
- Black Pepper: Half a teaspoon provides just enough gentle heat to balance the flavors.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Optional): One cup for those who love an extra cheesy casserole with irresistible gooeyness.
- Crushed Potato Chips or Breadcrumbs: Half a cup adds that all-important crispy topping for delightful crunch.
- Butter: One tablespoon to grease your casserole dish, ensuring nothing sticks and a buttery flavor enhancement.
How to Make Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pasta
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cooking the pasta just right is key – cook your macaroni or egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente, meaning tender but still firm to the bite. Carefully drain and set them aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix the Casserole Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the flaked tuna, cooked pasta, frozen peas, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and mayonnaise. Add in garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper for that wonderful burst of savory flavors. Stir everything together until it’s thoroughly combined and creamy. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, mix in half a cup of shredded cheddar cheese at this stage for a rich, melty texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Dish
Butter up a 9×13-inch casserole dish generously. This little step ensures your casserole won’t stick and adds a hint of butter flavor to the edges, which always feels just right.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the tuna and pasta mixture evenly into your prepared casserole dish. Next, sprinkle crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs on top. These bring a wonderful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base. If you want to take the cheesiness up a notch, scatter the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the topping now.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place your assembled casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a gorgeous golden color and bubbles enticingly around the edges. This bubbling magic means every bite will be creamy and perfectly warm.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Don’t rush! Let your Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe rest for a few minutes outside the oven before serving. This cool-down time lets the casserole set a bit, making it easier to scoop and enhancing those lovely, layered flavors.
How to Serve Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a few chives make a lovely colorful garnish that brightens the dish and adds a subtle fresh note. If you want a little extra zing, a dash of hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can add a lively contrast to the creamy casserole.
Side Dishes
This casserole is pretty hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans adds balance and freshness. A light tomato salad or even some roasted carrots also complement it beautifully without competing with its rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, portion the casserole into individual ramekins before baking, making it perfect for parties or cozy single servings. You can also turn leftovers into quesadillas or stuffed peppers the next day, giving new life to your Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe in creative and tasty ways.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy texture and flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more comforting.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking for up to 2 months. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time if needed.
Reheating
Leftover tuna casserole reheats wonderfully in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, until warmed through and bubbly. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain the crispy topping texture, but if pressed for time, microwaving works fine with a shorter cooking time.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni or egg noodles are classic, feel free to use penne, rotini, or even small shells. Just cook them al dente and adjust the quantity so the casserole maintains its creamy, balanced texture.
Is it necessary to add mayonnaise in the recipe?
Mayonnaise adds extra creaminess and a slight tang that elevates the flavors, but if you prefer, you can substitute it with sour cream or plain Greek yogurt. Each alternative will give a different but delicious twist to the casserole.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your cream of mushroom soup and breadcrumbs or potato chips are labeled gluten-free. There are great options available in most stores now that make this recipe accessible to those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I make the topping extra crunchy?
For an ultra-crispy topping, mix melted butter with your breadcrumbs or crushed chips before sprinkling on top. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese for a golden, flavorful crust.
Is leftover tuna casserole safe to eat after freezing?
Yes, as long as it has been frozen properly in an airtight container, leftover tuna casserole will stay safe and tasty for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating to keep it at its best.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like home in every forkful. It’s straightforward to make, full of comforting flavors, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re new to cooking casseroles or a seasoned kitchen pro, I hope you give this classic a try and find it as deliciously satisfying as I do.
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Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This easy tuna casserole recipe is a comforting, creamy, and cheesy dish perfect for a quick family dinner. Made with tender elbow macaroni, canned tuna, peas, and a creamy mushroom sauce, it’s topped with a crispy layer of crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs for added texture. Ready in just 35 minutes, this classic baked casserole is delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water or oil, drained and flaked
- 3 cups cooked elbow macaroni or egg noodles (about 1 1/2 cups uncooked pasta)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
- 1/2 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the casserole dish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni or egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained and flaked tuna, cooked pasta, frozen peas, cream of mushroom soup, milk, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well blended.
- Add Cheese (Optional): For a creamier and cheesier dish, fold in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the tuna mixture if desired.
- Prepare Casserole Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter to prevent sticking.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the tuna and pasta mixture into the greased casserole dish and spread it evenly.
- Add Topping: Evenly sprinkle crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs over the top for a crunchy texture.
- Add Extra Cheese (Optional): If using cheese, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole for a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top turns golden and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors and ensure it’s safe to eat. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Notes
- You can substitute frozen peas with canned or fresh peas depending on availability.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat mayonnaise and reduced-fat cheese.
- Breadcrumbs can be replaced with crushed crackers if preferred.
- Make sure to cook the pasta al dente to avoid a mushy casserole.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
