When it comes to comfort food, tuna casserole is a timeless favorite. This dish is a lifesaver for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying and quick-to-prepare dinner that the whole family will enjoy. With its creamy filling, tender pasta, and cheesy topping, this casserole is both hearty and flavorful. The addition of peas adds a touch of freshness, while the melted cheese on top brings extra indulgence. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become a go-to meal for your household!
Ingredients for Classic Tuna Casserole
- 6 cans of tuna packed in water, drained (5 oz each) (170 grams each, total 1 kg)
- 2 cans of cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz each) (300 grams each)
- 1 box elbow noodles (16 oz) (450 grams)
- 2 teaspoons black pepper (4 grams)
- 1/2 cup milk (120 milliliters)
- 10 slices white American cheese (or your preferred cheese, 250 grams)
- 1 can peas, drained (15 oz or 425 grams)
How to Make Classic Tuna Casserole
Cook the pasta
Boil the elbow noodles according to the package directions until al dente.
Prepare the casserole base
Drain the cooked noodles and transfer them to a large casserole dish. You can substitute elbow noodles with egg noodles, bow ties, or any pasta shape you prefer.
Drain the tuna
Open and drain all six cans of tuna thoroughly.
Layer the tuna
Flake the tuna and evenly distribute it over the pasta in the casserole dish.
Add the creamy ingredients
Pour the cream of mushroom soup and milk over the tuna and pasta.
Mix thoroughly
Stir the ingredients together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy mixture.
Incorporate seasoning and peas
Add the black pepper and drained peas, then mix well to evenly distribute.
Top with cheese
Lay the slices of American cheese in a single layer over the top of the casserole. Feel free to use your favorite cheese if you prefer.
Bake to perfection
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is hot throughout.
Why This Recipe Works
This classic tuna casserole recipe combines simplicity with rich flavors, making it a favorite for any night of the week. The cream of mushroom soup provides a velvety base, while the melted cheese creates a golden, bubbly topping. The peas add a subtle sweetness that balances the dish, and the tuna gives it a satisfying protein boost. It’s a nostalgic dish that’s easy to customize to suit your family’s taste.
Tuna casserole is the perfect dinner option for when you need something quick, comforting, and crowd-pleasing. This recipe is easy to adapt—swap in your favorite pasta or cheese to make it your own. Serve it straight from the oven with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this casserole is sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
