Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole (Print Version)

Creamy noodles, tuna, peas, mushrooms, and crisp topping bake together for a nostalgic comfort dish.

# Components:

→ Noodle Base

01 - 12 oz wide egg noodles
02 - 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
03 - 12 oz frozen peas
04 - 1 can (4 oz) sliced mushrooms, drained
05 - Salt for boiling water

→ Creamy Sauce

06 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
07 - 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
08 - 2 cups whole milk
09 - 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
10 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
11 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
12 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
13 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Crispy Topping

14 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
15 - 2 tablespoons melted butter
16 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
17 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, cook wide egg noodles until just al dente according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
02 - In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until light golden. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously until smooth. Stir in cream of mushroom soup and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
03 - Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until cheddar is fully melted and well blended.
04 - In the greased baking dish, combine cooked egg noodles, drained tuna, frozen peas, and sliced mushrooms. Gently toss to distribute evenly. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and fold together until thoroughly coated.
05 - In a small mixing bowl, blend panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole surface.
06 - Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and continue baking for 10 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses only pantry-friendly and freezer staples
  • Can be prepped ahead and baked when ready
  • Crispy topping and creamy center create the best contrast
  • Crowd-pleaser at family dinners and potlucks
02 -
  • Packed with filling protein and carbohydrates for lasting comfort
  • An amazing freezer meal for future busy weeks
  • Bread crumb topping stays crisp even when reheated
03 -
  • Never rinse your cooked noodles as a little starch helps the sauce cling beautifully
  • Use fresh cheese for the most melt and best flavor
  • A metal baking dish yields the crispiest bottom crust but glass or ceramic works too

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