The Ultimate Comfort Food – Old-Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole
Craving a cozy, no-fuss meal that tastes like home?
This Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and topped with crispy potato chips for that irresistible crunch.
Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a nostalgic throwback, this budget-friendly dish is packed with flavor and made with simple pantry staples.
Just mix, bake, and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal in under an hour.
One bite, and you’ll see why this timeless favorite never goes out of style!
For Tuna Noodle Casserole
- Egg Noodles – Cooked slightly underdone so they hold their texture when baked.
- Butter – Used to sauté the onions and add richness to the casserole.
- Yellow Onion – Adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Solid White Albacore Tuna – Drained well for the best texture and taste.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup – The creamy base that gives the casserole its signature flavor.
- Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and a slight tang.
- Sour Cream – Enhances the texture and adds a subtle tangy richness.
- Milk – Helps to thin out the sauce and make it smooth.
- Salt & Pepper – Basic seasoning to bring out all the flavors.
- Cheddar Cheese – Melts into the casserole, adding a creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Peas – Adds a pop of sweetness and color to the dish.
- Crushed Potato Chips – The crunchy, salty topping that makes this casserole extra special.
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
Ingredients
- 12 oz wide egg noodles (slightly undercooked)
- ½ cup diced yellow onion
- 2 tbsp butter
- 12 oz can solid white albacore tuna, drained
- 2 cans (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise (not Miracle Whip)
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- ⅓ cup milk
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup crushed potato chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Cook Noodles: Boil egg noodles, undercooking them by 2 minutes. Drain well.
- Sauté Onions: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat, cook onions until soft and translucent.
- Prepare Mixture: In a large bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, salt, pepper, and sautéed onions with butter. Stir in tuna, peas, and cheddar cheese.
- Combine & Assemble: Gently fold in the noodles until evenly coated. Transfer mixture to the baking dish and sprinkle crushed potato chips evenly on top.
- Bake: Place uncovered in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
- Serve & Enjoy!
Nutrition
Customization Tips:
- Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
- Swap potato chips for breadcrumbs, French fried onions, or extra cheese for a cheesy topping.
- Use cream of chicken or celery soup for a different flavor.
- Substitute tuna with cooked chicken if preferred.
This classic dish is simple, nostalgic, and perfect for a cozy meal!
1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of egg noodles?
Absolutely! Egg noodles are traditional, but you can swap them for elbow macaroni, rotini, or medium shells. Just make sure to cook them slightly underdone so they don’t turn mushy when baked.
2. What can I use instead of potato chips for the topping?
No chips? No problem! Try buttery breadcrumbs, crushed Ritz crackers, panko, or even French fried onions for a crispy, golden finish. Extra shredded cheese also works if you love a super cheesy top!
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before popping it in the oven. Perfect for meal prep!
4. Can I freeze tuna noodle casserole?
Definitely. Assemble the casserole (without baking), wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed. If it looks dry, stir in a splash of milk before baking.
5. How can I add more flavor to the casserole?
Looking to level it up? Try sautéed mushrooms, garlic powder, a pinch of paprika, or fresh herbs like parsley. A squeeze of lemon before serving also brightens up the flavors!
This classic dish is easy, adaptable, and always a hit. Happy cooking!