Delicious & Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe – Classic Comfort Food

Tuna casserole is a timeless comfort dish that has been a household favorite for decades. This budget-friendly meal is easy to make and packed with creamy, cheesy goodness. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prep option, this Tuna Casserole Recipe is perfect for all occasions. Made with pantry staples like canned tuna, pasta, and a creamy sauce, it’s a filling, satisfying dish that’s simple yet delicious.

In this article, we’ll go through a step-by-step guide to making the perfect tuna casserole, including nutritional information, cooking time, equipment, and ingredient list. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced home chef, this recipe is straightforward and guarantees a delicious outcome every time.

Nutrition & Instructions

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g

Cooking Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time: 25 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Cuisines: American
• Course: Main Course
• Servings: 6

Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Medium mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater (if using fresh cheese)
• Oven

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or egg noodles)
• 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna (drained)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni or egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, shredded cheese, frozen peas, chopped celery, onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until fully mixed.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Add the cooked pasta to the mixture and gently fold everything together. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Make the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers) with melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a crunchy, golden-brown crust.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier.

Step 8: Garnish and Enjoy!

For an extra touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or additional shredded cheese. Serve warm and enjoy your homemade tuna casserole!

Tips for the Best Tuna Casserole

• Use high-quality tuna: Choose canned tuna in water for a lighter option or tuna in oil for a richer flavor.
• Add extra veggies: Feel free to toss in mushrooms, bell peppers, or corn for added texture and nutrition.
• Customize the cheese: Try different cheese varieties like Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Gouda for a unique twist.
• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko.

Serving Suggestions

This Tuna Casserole Recipe pairs well with a fresh side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. It also makes great leftovers—simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This Tuna Casserole Recipe is an easy, delicious, and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With a creamy, cheesy filling and a crispy topping, it’s the ultimate comfort food that never goes out of style. Try this recipe today and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal with your family!

Let us know how your tuna casserole turns out in the comments below. Happy cooking!