This creamy tuna noodle casserole has a special place in my heart. It’s one of those comforting dishes that reminds me of family dinners and cozy nights in. With its rich, creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it caters to everyone and is easy to whip up on a busy weeknight. You’ll be enjoying this hearty meal in about an hour without breaking a sweat.
What makes this casserole special is its delightful combination of flavors and textures. The tender egg noodles come together with flaky tuna and vibrant peas, all enveloped in a creamy sauce. Plus, the buttery Ritz cracker topping adds a satisfying crunch. It’s perfect for feeding the family or sharing with friends at a casual gathering.
Why you’ll love creamy tuna noodle casserole
- Quick to prepare for busy nights
- Deliciously cheesy and creamy flavor
- Fewer dishes to clean up afterwards
- Can be made ahead for meal prep
- Freezer-friendly for easy storage
What ingredients do I need for creamy tuna noodle casserole?
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 2 cans (5 oz) tuna, drained
- 1 can (cream of mushroom soup)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Egg noodles: Sub with whole wheat or gluten-free noodles for alternative options.
- Cream of mushroom soup: You can make a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms and cream if preferred.
- Tuna: Substitute with canned chicken or chickpeas for a different protein source.
How do I make creamy tuna noodle casserole step-by-step?
To make creamy tuna noodle casserole, you’ll start by cooking the egg noodles and then mixing them with the other ingredients. Finally, you’ll bake it until bubbly and golden.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the egg noodles according to package directions, then drain.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, frozen peas, milk, and shredded cheese. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter, then sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: For an added flavor boost, try mixing in some sautéed onions or garlic before baking. You can tell it’s done when the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
How should I serve it?
Creamy tuna noodle casserole is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with some fresh herbs like parsley or dill sprinkled on top for a pop of color and flavor. Pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal experience.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
Yes, you can make creamy tuna noodle casserole ahead of time! Prepare it, cover, and store in the refrigerator for up to three days before baking. If you want to freeze it, assemble and freeze before baking. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 40-50 minutes, or until heated through.
How do I fix common issues?
- Dry casserole: Add a bit more milk or cream before baking to maintain moisture.
- Bland flavor: Taste before baking; add more seasoning or mix in additional cheese for zing.
- Soggy texture: Avoid overcooking the noodles; they should be firm before baking.
What variations can I try?
Get creative with your creamy tuna noodle casserole! You can add sautéed mushrooms for extra depth, swap in broccoli instead of peas for a veggie boost, or even mix in some cooked bacon for a delightful twist. The possibilities are endless!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or a spicy pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
Is this casserole kid-friendly?
Yes! Creamy tuna noodle casserole is a hit with kids and adults alike. Its comforting flavors make it appealing to the whole family.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply use a plant-based protein to replace the tuna, and ensure your cream of mushroom soup is vegetarian.
Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the egg noodles according to package directions, then drain.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, frozen peas, milk, and shredded cheese. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter, then sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.