Name: Best Tuna Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups egg noodles; ½ tbsp butter; ½ cup onion, diced; ½ cup celery, diced; ½ cup red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup frozen peas, defrosted; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1- 5-6 oz can tuna packed in water, drained; 1- 10.5 oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup; ⅓ cup milk; 1 cup cheddar cheese, freshly grated; 1 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped; ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs; 1 tbsp butter, melted; ½ cup cheddar cheese, freshly grated; 1 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped

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There’s something undeniably nostalgic and comforting about a bubbling casserole fresh from the oven, and the Best Tuna Casserole Recipe captures all of that home-cooked magic in just one dish! This classic American favorite blends tender noodles, savory tuna, and crisp, colorful veggies, all hugged by a creamy, cheesy sauce and topped with a golden, crunchy crumb. It’s the kind of irresistible dinner that brings everyone rushing to the table, and believe me, you’ll want seconds.

Best Tuna Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Best Tuna Casserole Recipe is a wonderful example of how a few simple pantry and fridge staples can create amazing, crave-worthy flavor. Each ingredient adds its own character, whether it’s an irresistible creaminess, a touch of sharpness, or that signature crunch on top.

Egg noodles: These classic noodles are the perfect base, soaking up all the delicious sauce without losing their comforting texture.
Butter: Just a bit adds richness and helps sauté the veggies, drawing out their natural sweetness.
Onion (diced): Brings a mellow, aromatic background that makes every bite pop.
Celery (diced): Adds a light crunch and a fresh, subtle earthiness.
Red bell pepper (diced): Lends color and a touch of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory notes.
Frozen peas (defrosted): Offer a burst of sweetness and bright green color that makes the dish feel timeless.
Dried oregano: Just a sprinkle infuses the sauce with cozy herbal warmth.
Tuna (canned, in water, drained): The star protein, transforming everyday ingredients into a hearty meal.
Condensed cream of mushroom soup: A creamy shortcut that creates that perfect, lush casserole sauce.
Milk: Helps loosen the soup, making the casserole irresistibly creamy but never heavy.
Cheddar cheese (freshly grated): Melts into gooey perfection and adds that iconic tang and color.
Parsley (freshly chopped): For a pop of fresh flavor and color both inside and on top.
Panko breadcrumbs: These make the ultimate topping, staying extra crispy and light.
Butter (for topping): Makes the breadcrumbs golden and even more tempting.

How to Make Best Tuna Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Noodles

Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 425°F, so it’s ready when you are. Next, cook the egg noodles according to the package directions. Once they’re al dente, drain them and toss with just a hint of olive oil to keep them from sticking together while you work on the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Mix Up That Irresistible Crunchy Topping

In a small bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, the second helping of freshly grated cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Stir until everything is evenly coated—this magical topping delivers the crunch that makes the Best Tuna Casserole Recipe so memorable!

Step 3: Saute Your Fragrant Veggies

Melt half a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and red bell pepper, sautéing until everything is tender and fragrant, about five minutes. Season them with a pinch of salt, pepper, and dried oregano to draw out their flavor.

Step 4: Bring Everything Together

Grab a large mixing bowl and add the sautéed veggies, cooked noodles, drained tuna, defrosted peas, condensed soup, milk, a cup of freshly grated cheddar, and a tablespoon of chopped parsley. Mix until everything is perfectly coated and looks fabulously creamy.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Spoon your lovely noodle mixture into a 9×13-inch casserole dish, smoothing it out evenly. Sprinkle your prepared breadcrumb topping over every inch. Pop it in the oven, bake for about 20 minutes, and get ready for the top to turn a gorgeous golden brown and the kitchen to smell simply amazing.

How to Serve Best Tuna Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

To finish the Best Tuna Casserole Recipe with a flourish, scatter extra fresh parsley over the bubbling top just before serving. A light dusting of black pepper or a pinch of paprika adds color and a touch of warmth. You can even grate a little extra cheese over each serving if you want to take it totally over the top!

Side Dishes

This casserole is hearty and filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or simple roasted vegetables rounds out the meal beautifully. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are fantastic for scooping up every last bit of creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking individual portions in ramekins for a charming dinner party presentation—they look adorable and make everyone feel special. Or, use fun-shaped pasta or swap in colorful bell peppers to liven up a weeknight dinner and impress the kids.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors in the Best Tuna Casserole Recipe actually get even better as they mingle, so don’t worry if you end up with extras!

Freezing

This casserole is a freezer’s best friend. Assemble it right up to the topping, then wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding five extra minutes if needed.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. For a crispier top, remove the foil for the last five minutes. Individual portions can be microwaved, just add a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon instead of tuna?

Absolutely! Canned salmon works wonderfully in the Best Tuna Casserole Recipe, bringing a slightly different but equally delicious flavor. Just make sure to drain well and pick out any stray bones if needed.

Are there gluten-free options for this casserole?

Yes! Swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free Panko for the topping—most other ingredients are already gluten-free, so you won’t miss a beat in taste or texture.

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Definitely! Chopped mushrooms, broccoli, corn, or spinach are tasty additions. This Best Tuna Casserole Recipe is super flexible—add whatever veggies you have on hand or want to sneak in for extra nutrition.

What kind of cheese works best?

While cheddar is classic and gives lovely melt and sharpness, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even Swiss to change things up. Freshly grated is always best for flavor and melty texture.

Can I make this ahead for a party?

Yes, just assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Wait to add the topping right before it goes into the oven to keep it nice and crisp.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Best Tuna Casserole Recipe enough—it’s the cozy, easy dinner everyone craves, and it’s ready in just about half an hour. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight family meal or a nostalgic potluck, I hope you enjoy every flavorful, creamy, cheesy bite. Give it a try and see why this classic always has a place at the table!