Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake is a comforting classic that’s both hearty and easy to prepare. Combining tender noodles, flaky tuna, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish is a go-to for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Topped with a crunchy golden crust, it’s a delicious way to bring simple pantry staples together in a satisfying meal.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
egg noodlescanned tunacream of mushroom soupmayonnaisefrozen peas (optional)shredded cheddar cheeseonion powdergarlic powdersalt and pepperbuttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for topping
directions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook egg noodles according to package directions; drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, mix tuna, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, peas (if using), onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Fold in the cooked noodles and half of the shredded cheese.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, followed by buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with a golden topping.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
Serves 6Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 25-30 minutesTotal time: 40-45 minutes
Variations
Use cream of celery or chicken soup for a different flavor.
Add sautéed onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more texture.
Swap tuna for canned salmon or cooked chicken.
Top with French-fried onions for extra crunch.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free noodles to suit dietary needs.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.Can be frozen before or after baking for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?
You can use sour cream or plain Greek yogurt instead.
Do I have to use egg noodles?
No, any short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells will work.
How do I keep the topping crispy?
Add the topping just before baking and bake uncovered.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely—frozen peas, corn, or sautéed vegetables work well.
Conclusion
Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake is a timeless comfort food that’s easy to whip up and loved by all ages. With its creamy sauce, cheesy layers, and crunchy topping, it makes for a satisfying, budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Print
Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Comforting and cheesy baked casserole featuring tender tuna and pasta in a creamy sauce, topped with golden breadcrumbs for a family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 2 (5 oz) cans tuna in water, drained and flaked
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C).
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente, drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour and cook 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in milk until smooth. Simmer until sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir cheddar cheese into sauce until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Remove from heat, then fold in tuna, cooked noodles, and peas (if using).
- Transfer mixture to a greased 2‑quart baking dish.
- In a small bowl, toss breadcrumbs with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly over the top.
- Bake 20 minutes, or until bubbly and breadcrumbs are golden.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Customize by adding diced onion or celery to the sauce.
- Make-ahead: assemble casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to a day before baking—add 5–10 extra minutes in the oven.
- Breadcrumb topping can be swapped with crushed potato chips for crunch.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for part of the milk to reduce fat and add tang.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
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