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Classic tuna noodle casserole served warm with a creamy sauce and cheesy topping
Isaac blogger

Tuna Noodle Casserole – Easy & Creamy Comfort

Tuna noodle casserole is a classic, creamy comfort dish made with tender noodles, flaky tuna, a homemade sauce, and a golden cheesy topping—perfect for an easy family dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories:
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz egg noodles (uncooked)

  • 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained well
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • Cream Sauce:
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ⅛ tsp garlic powder
  • Topping:
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp melted butter (optional)

Method
 

  1. Before You Begin
  2. Preheat and prepare your cookware as needed. Cooking times and results may vary depending on your equipment and ingredients.
  3. Cook the Noodles
  4. Cook noodles according to package directions until al dente, meaning tender but still slightly firm. Drain well.
  5. Make the Cream Sauce
  6. Melt butter in a skillet. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes.
  7. Slowly add milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Simmer about 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly. Cooking time may vary depending on heat level.
  8. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  9. Combine Ingredients
  10. Mix noodles, tuna, and peas in a bowl. Pour cream sauce over and stir gently.
  11. Assemble
  12. Spread the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  13. Add the Topping
  14. Combine cheese, breadcrumbs, and optional melted butter. Sprinkle over casserole.
  15. Bake
  16. Bake at 375°F (190°C) covered for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking 10–15 minutes, until the topping is golden and the center is hot. Cooking time may vary depending on oven performance.
  17. Rest and Serve
  18. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Cook noodles just until al dente so they hold their shape during baking.
  • Allow the casserole to rest briefly before serving so the sauce thickens.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat covered in the oven or microwave until heated through.