Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Colby Jack | Easy Chicken or Tuna Casserole Recipe
Tuna Noodle Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—a creamy, cheesy pasta bake filled with tender tuna, noodles, and a deliciously crunchy breadcrumb topping. This classic dish is simple to make, affordable, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. Whether you’re craving something nostalgic or just looking for a hearty meal, Tuna Noodle Casserole is sure to satisfy.
The combination of creamy sauce, flaky tuna, and soft noodles topped with a crunchy finish makes this casserole both comforting and delicious. You can even customize it by adding vegetables or cheese, making it a versatile dish that everyone in your family will enjoy.
Recipe Preparation Equipment
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Tuna Noodle Casserole:
- A large pot for boiling the noodles
- A casserole dish (9×13-inch works well)
- A mixing bowl for the casserole mixture
- A saucepan for making the sauce
- A whisk or spoon for stirring
- A spoon for mixing the casserole ingredients
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Tuna Noodle Casserole:
For the casserole:
- 12 oz (340g) egg noodles (or any pasta you prefer)
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in oil or water, drained and flaked
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional, but a great addition)
- 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
For the sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken for a variation)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or sour cream for a tangy twist)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Tuna Noodle Casserole?
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the noodles
Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set them aside once they’re cooked. If you’re using other pasta, follow the same steps for cooking.
Step 3: Prepare the sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and heated through. Adjust the seasoning to taste, and if the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit more milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Mix the casserole
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, drained tuna, peas, and diced onion (if using). Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
Step 5: Assemble the casserole
Transfer the tuna noodle mixture into the greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly. Top the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese for extra cheesiness, and then sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top to create a crispy finish.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. If you like a crunchier top, you can broil it for 2-3 minutes at the end.
Step 7: Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop out portions and enjoy your comforting, homemade Tuna Noodle Casserole!
Variations
- Add vegetables: You can add other vegetables to the casserole, like mushrooms, carrots, bell peppers, or corn for more flavor and nutrients.
- Use different cheese: Experiment with other cheese varieties such as mozzarella, Parmesan, or gouda for different flavors.
- Add spices: To spice it up, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free version of cream of mushroom soup to make this casserole gluten-free.
Cooking Note
Tuna Noodle Casserole is best when served immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
Tuna Noodle Casserole is perfect on its own, but it also pairs well with:
- A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or green beans
- Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices for extra crunch
Helpful Tips
- Use tuna packed in oil for extra flavor: Tuna in oil will add a richer flavor to the casserole, but tuna in water works just as well if you prefer a lighter version.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and bake when you’re ready to serve.
- Check for doneness: If the casserole is cooking too quickly on the top but not fully heated inside, cover it with foil and continue baking until it’s heated through.
Tips for the Best Tuna Noodle Casserole
- Don’t overcook the noodles: Since the casserole will bake in the oven, cook the noodles just al dente so they don’t become mushy in the casserole.
- Use a crispy topping: The key to a great casserole is a crispy topping. You can add more breadcrumbs or even crushed potato chips for a fun variation.
- Try adding Dijon mustard: For a tangy twist, add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce before mixing it with the noodles.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
25-30 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
FAQs
1. Can I make Tuna Noodle Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it in the oven as directed.
2. Can I freeze Tuna Noodle Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze Tuna Noodle Casserole before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual.
3. Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes, you can use other types of canned fish, like salmon or mackerel, in place of tuna for a variation.
Conclusion
Tuna Noodle Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a hearty meal the whole family will enjoy. With tender noodles, flaky tuna, and a creamy sauce, this casserole delivers on both flavor and nostalgia. Customize it with your favorite veggies or cheeses, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Make it once, and it will quickly become a family favorite!
