Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
A comforting and classic American tuna noodle casserole, featuring tender egg noodles and flaky tuna in a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with a crunchy potato chip crust. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 8 oz Egg noodles
- 2 15-oz cans Canned tuna
- 1 10.5-oz can Cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup Frozen peas
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Crushed potato chips
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Cook the egg noodles in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package directions until al dente (tender but still firm to the bite). Drain the noodles thoroughly and return them to the pot.
⏱️ 10-12 minutes - 3
Add the drained and flaked tuna, undiluted cream of mushroom soup, thawed frozen peas, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot with the noodles. Stir gently until all ingredients are well combined and the noodles are evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Season with black pepper if desired.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Pour the noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 5
Evenly distribute the crushed potato chips over the cheese layer. This will create a wonderfully crispy topping.
⏱️ 1 minute - 6
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through, the sauce is bubbly around the edges, and the potato chip topping is golden brown and crispy.
⏱️ 25-30 minutes - 7
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.
⏱️ 5-10 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For best results, use good quality canned tuna. Tuna packed in oil tends to be more flavorful and moist.
- ✓Don't overcook the noodles; they will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
- ✓The potato chip topping adds a delightful crunch. Plain or lightly salted chips work best to not overpower the other flavors.
- ✓This casserole is a budget-friendly meal that's easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a different topping, use breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter instead of potato chips.
- Add sautéed fresh mushrooms along with the soup for an earthier flavor.
- Stir in a tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley or chives for a touch of freshness.