Short Description

Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake is a timeless comfort dish that combines tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, sweet peas, and a rich, cheesy sauce. Baked to perfection, this casserole offers a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting and Familiar: A classic dish that evokes nostalgia and warmth.
Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for all cooking levels.
Budget-Friendly: Utilizes pantry staples, making it an economical choice for family meals.
Versatile: Easily adaptable with various add-ins like vegetables or different cheeses to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 oz egg noodles
2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
1 cup frozen peas
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup sour cream or mayonnaise
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook Noodles: Boil the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream or mayonnaise, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked noodles, drained tuna, frozen peas, and shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce. Stir until well combined.
Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle additional cheese on top if desired.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden brown.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6–8
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutesBitz & Giggles+7My Suburban Kitchen+7Goût de Chez Nous+7

Variations

Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for varied flavors.
Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or fried onions on top before baking for added texture.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free noodles and soup to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Allow the casserole to cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through. For larger portions, cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warm.
Freezing: Freeze the baked casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Yes, cooked and flaked fresh tuna can be used as a substitute for canned tuna.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, other short pasta types like rotini or penne can be used in place of egg noodles.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for added heat.

What can I serve with this casserole?

A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables make excellent side dishes to complement this hearty casserole.

Can I use cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom?

Yes, cream of chicken soup can be used as an alternative to cream of mushroom soup.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Ensure the casserole is covered with foil during the initial baking period to retain moisture.

Can I add breadcrumbs on top?

Certainly. Sprinkling breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top adds a delightful crunch.

Is it necessary to thaw the peas before adding?

No, frozen peas can be added directly to the mixture without thawing.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use dairy-free alternatives for milk, cheese, and sour cream to make the casserole dairy-free.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake is a classic, comforting dish that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying. Its versatility allows for various adaptations to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated the next day, this casserole is sure to be a family favorite.

Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake

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Author: Olivia
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings

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Description

This creamy tuna noodle bake is a nostalgic, hearty casserole brimming with tender noodles, flaky tuna, sweet peas, and a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for family dinners and meal prep, this comforting classic is a satisfying one-dish meal you’ll make again and again

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the Noodles:
- Boil egg noodles in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
- In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, sour cream or mayo, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in tuna, peas, and 1 cup of shredded cheese.
Combine and Assemble:
- Add cooked noodles to the mixture and stir until fully coated.
- Pour into prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top.
Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with a golden cheese topping.

Serve:
- Let cool slightly before serving. Pairs well with a green salad or garlic bread.

Notes

Add crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs on top for crunch.
Swap in cooked chicken or canned salmon if desired.

Freezes well—just thaw before baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American