Easy Tuna Casserole: The Classic Comfort Food Recipe

Tuna casserole is a favorite American comfort food, loved for its creamy texture, budget-friendly ingredients, and ease of preparation. In just a few simple steps, you can create a hearty, satisfying meal that brings nostalgia to the dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a family, cooking for one, or looking for a reliable potluck dish, this easy tuna casserole delivers a winning combination of convenience and flavor.

Table of Contents

• Why We Love Tuna Casserole
• Ingredients
• Step-by-Step Instructions
• Tips and Variations
• Serving Suggestions
• Nutrition Information
• Make-Ahead and Storage
• Frequently Asked Questions

Why We Love Tuna Casserole

Tuna casserole is an iconic dish that has stood the test of time for generations. Its enduring popularity comes from its:

• Affordability: Uses pantry staples like canned tuna, pasta, and canned soup.
• Quick and easy preparation: Most versions come together in under an hour, with minimal prep work required.
• Versatility: Adapt the recipe with various veggies, cheeses, or toppings.
• Crowd-pleasing flavor: Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying with a crispy, golden topping.

This casserole is ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or anytime you want a cozy homemade dish with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

The classic easy tuna casserole recipe requires only a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 (8-ounce) package elbow macaroni (or substitute with small shell or rotini pasta)
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (cream of celery or chicken work as alternatives)
• 1 cup frozen green peas (no need to thaw)
• 2 (5-ounce) cans tuna in water, drained
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
• 1 cup crispy fried onions (French-fried onions add a signature crunch)
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Feel free to customize by adding sautéed mushrooms, diced celery, or a handful of fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to make the best easy tuna casserole. This recipe yields 6 servings.

1. Preheat your oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C).
2. Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
3. Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, drained tuna, frozen peas, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until thoroughly mixed.
4. Add the pasta: Fold the cooked, drained macaroni into the mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish and spread evenly.
6. Add the topping: Sprinkle crispy fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake: Place the casserole, uncovered, in the preheated oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top.
8. Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Quick Reference Table: Main Ingredients and Quantities

Tips and Variations

Make this casserole your own by experimenting with different components and flavors:

• Different soups: Substitute cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for a new taste.
• Vegetables: Add sautéed mushrooms, diced carrots, or corn for added nutrition and color.
• Pasta shapes: Use small shells, fusilli, or rotini if you prefer different pasta textures.
• Cheese options: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, Swiss, or a cheese blend for extra flavor.
• Crunchy toppings: Use crushed potato chips, bread crumbs, or panko for a different crispy finish.
• Make it lighter: Use reduced-fat cheese, light soup, and low-fat milk without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Easy tuna casserole is a complete meal on its own, thanks to the protein, carbs, and veggies. However, you can round out your dinner with one or more of these delicious sides:

• Simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
• Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables
• Buttered crusty bread or dinner rolls
• Pickled vegetables for a zesty contrast

Pair with a chilled glass of lemonade or iced tea for a classic family dinner experience.

Nutrition Information

The following nutritional values are approximately for one serving (1/6th of the casserole):

• Calories: 420
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 890mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 43g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 22g

Note: Nutrition values will vary depending on specific brands and variations used.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Easy tuna casserole is ideal for making ahead and storing as leftovers:

• Make ahead: Assemble the casserole (without the crispy topping) and refrigerate, tightly covered, for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.
• Storing leftovers: Cool completely. Cover with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, wrap the unbaked (and untopped) casserole well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add topping, and bake as directed.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or rewarm the casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Add extra topping if needed to refresh the crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of tuna?

Yes! Solid white albacore, chunk tuna, or light tuna all work well. Use what you have on hand, but be sure to drain well for the best texture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free cream soup. Be sure to check the fried onion topping, or use a gluten-free alternative.

What if I don’t like peas?

Feel free to leave them out or replace with another vegetable, such as corn, sautéed mushrooms, or diced bell peppers.

How do I keep the casserole from being dry?

Be careful not to overbake, and make sure there’s enough liquid (milk and soup) in the filling. If reheating, add a splash of milk to refresh the creamy texture.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes. Simply double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch dish. Increase baking time as needed until the casserole is hot and bubbly.

Conclusion

This classic easy tuna casserole is beloved for its creamy, cheesy filling and crispy onion topping, making it a go-to comfort food across households. Its flexibility means you can tailor it to your tastes, accommodate dietary needs, or prepare it ahead for busy nights. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a warm, nostalgic meal that’s always a hit with family and friends.

Author

Shinta

 

Shinta is a biotechnologist turned writer. She holds a master's degree in Biotechnology from Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences and a PG Diploma in cellular and molecular diagnostics from Manipal University. Shinta realised her love for content while working as an editor for a scientific journal.

Read full bio of Shinta