Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe
Creamy tuna casserole with peas, egg noodles, and a crispy breadcrumb top
By Sarah Mitchell • June 14, 2026
Tuna noodle casserole is the quintessential American comfort food — egg noodles and tuna folded into a creamy mushroom sauce with peas, topped with buttery breadcrumbs baked until golden.
Make the cream sauce from scratch instead of using canned soup — mushrooms, butter, flour, and milk create a far superior base.
The crispy buttered breadcrumb topping is non-negotiable.
About This Recipe
"Tuna Noodle Casserole" is a Comfort Food recipe that brings egg noodles, tuna, drained, frozen peas, mushrooms, sliced and butter together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Easy and ready in about 40 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 6 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The American inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 cans (5 oz) tuna, drained
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- 1
Cook noodles al dente. Drain.
- 2
Sauté mushrooms in butter until golden. Add flour, cook 1 minute. Whisk in milk until thick.
- 3
Stir in cheese, tuna, peas, and noodles. Pour into a greased baking dish.
- 4
Toss panko with melted butter. Sprinkle over the top.
- 5
Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Expert Tips
For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Egg noodles is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. Oven and stovetop work especially well for this preparation. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.
What To Serve With This
"Tuna Noodle Casserole" is a versatile Comfort Food dish that pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, buttered green beans, roasted potatoes and classic American sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Tuna Noodle Casserole stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating before sealing the container. Reheat gently until warmed through, adding a small splash of liquid if needed to restore the original texture.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make Tuna Noodle Casserole?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, for a total of roughly 40 minutes. It serves 6 and is rated Easy.
How do I store leftover Tuna Noodle Casserole?
Store leftover Tuna Noodle Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.
Can I make Tuna Noodle Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Tuna Noodle Casserole in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to preserve the best texture and flavor.
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