Introduction

Tuna casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that brings together simple pantry staples into a warm, creamy meal. Using Campbell’s condensed soup streamlines the process while still delivering delicious flavor. This recipe is a family-friendly classic that you can have ready in about an hour.

A white bowl filled with creamy pasta topped with bright green peas scattered throughout. The pasta is coated in a thick white sauce with pieces of light beige chicken mixed in. On top, there is a layer of golden brown crispy breadcrumbs adding texture. A fork lifts a bite showing the creamy, soft pasta and chicken beneath the crunchy topping. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 cups hot cooked medium egg noodles
2 cans (10.5 oz each) Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup (regular or 25% lower sodium)

2 cans (10 oz each) tuna, drained
2 cups frozen peas

1 cup milk
2 tbsp dry bread crumbs

1 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

Step 1: Gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your oven is hot and ready when it’s time to bake the casserole.
Step 2: In a 3-quart casserole dish, stir together the hot cooked egg noodles, both cans of cream of mushroom soup, drained tuna, frozen peas, and milk until everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the mixture is hot and bubbling. Once baked, stir the casserole well to evenly distribute the creamy sauce.
Step 4: In a small bowl, mix the dry bread crumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs are coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the hot casserole, then return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the bread crumbs are golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burning your mouth. Enjoy your warm and comforting tuna noodle casserole!

Tips & Variations

Drain the tuna thoroughly to prevent a watery casserole and ensure it sets properly.
Swap egg noodles for penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni if preferred.
Try cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for a different flavor.

Use canned salmon, cooked chicken, or leftover turkey instead of tuna.
Substitute frozen peas with mixed vegetables, corn, green beans, or fresh peas (blanched first).
For a richer dish, replace milk with heavy cream; use chicken broth for a lighter option.

Use crushed crackers, panko, or crushed potato chips instead of bread crumbs for the topping.
To prevent overcooked noodles, cook them just shy of al dente before baking.

Storage

Store leftover casserole covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It often tastes better the next day after flavors meld. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil for 20-25 minutes or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry after reheating.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with creamy pasta layered at the bottom with smooth, pale fettuccine noodles, dotted generously with bright green peas scattered throughout. On top of the pasta is a thick, creamy white sauce mixed with tender chunks of light-colored chicken. The dish is finished with a golden-brown crispy breadcrumb topping that adds texture to the smoothness. A fork with a shiny silver handle lifts a bite showing all the layers together, against a white marbled textured background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use tuna packed in oil instead of water?

Yes, both water-packed and oil-packed tuna work well. Water-packed is lighter, while oil-packed adds more richness. Just be sure to drain the tuna well either way.

What can I serve with tuna casserole?

This dish is a complete meal but pairs nicely with a simple side salad, such as mixed greens with cucumber and cherry tomatoes, or a classic iceberg wedge with ranch dressing. Buttery dinner rolls, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans also complement the casserole well.