If you are looking for a comforting, family-friendly dish that comes together quickly yet feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. With tender egg noodles, flaked tuna, and vibrant peas swimming in a luscious, cheesy sauce, every bite delivers rich and satisfying flavors that never get old. It’s a classic that blends simplicity and heartiness in the best possible way, perfect for cozy dinners or anytime you crave something both easy and delightful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Recipe is a breeze, and each element plays a special role in creating that perfect balance of creaminess, texture, and bright pops of flavor. From the comforting cheesy sauce to the fresh green peas, every component comes together to make this dish irresistible.
- 12 oz egg noodles: These provide a tender, chewy base that holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained: A lean protein that flakes nicely into the dish, making it hearty without heaviness.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Adds a fresh burst of color and a sweet, crisp contrast to the creamy texture.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: The secret behind the rich, velvety sauce that ties everything together.
- ½ cup sour cream or mayonnaise: Boosts creaminess and adds a subtle tang for depth of flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping): Melts into every nook, lending a sharp and gooey goodness.
- ½ cup milk: Lightens the casserole just enough so it’s creamy without being heavy.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory note that elevates the entire bake.
- Salt & pepper, to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors into perfect harmony.
How to Make Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and help the casserole develop a lovely crust on the edges as it bakes.
Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are perfectly tender but still hold a slight bite. Drain the noodles well and set them aside. This step ensures your noodles won’t get mushy after baking.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Tuna Filling
In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, thawed peas, cream of mushroom soup, your choice of sour cream or mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything gently but thoroughly until the mixture is creamy and well blended. This is where the magic happens, as all those simple ingredients meld into a rich, flavorful filling.
Step 4: Combine Noodles and Sauce
Add the cooked egg noodles to the bowl with the creamy tuna mixture and fold everything together carefully, making sure the noodles are evenly coated. This helps every forkful deliver a perfect blend of protein, veggies, and cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle some extra shredded cheddar cheese on top for a golden, bubbly crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the casserole is hot and the cheese has melted into a gorgeous, slightly crispy topping.
Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving
After you take the bake out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This helps the sauce set slightly so that it holds together nicely when you serve it, making every plate look as inviting as it tastes.
How to Serve Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few chives on top brightens the look and adds a subtle fresh flavor that contrasts perfectly with the rich casserole. A light dusting of cracked black pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice can also enhance the dish’s layers.
Side Dishes
This creamy tuna noodle bake pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables to add some freshness to your meal. Roasted carrots or a simple cucumber and tomato salad offer a refreshing balance to the richness of the casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or just make dinner extra special, try serving the bake in individual ramekins for personal portions or scoop it onto a plate with a side of garlic bread. You can also sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan on top before baking for an extra crunchy texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Recipe reheats beautifully, making it a great candidate for leftovers. Store any leftover portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing
If you want to make this dish in advance or save some for busy days, you can freeze it. Bake the casserole fully, then let it cool, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, usually about 15 to 20 minutes. Cover with foil at first to prevent the top from burning, then uncover in the last few minutes to bring back that bubbly, golden cheese topping.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this bake?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and ideal for this recipe, you can swap in rotini, shells, or penne if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to cook them to al dente before mixing.
Is it better to use sour cream or mayonnaise in the recipe?
Both work wonderfully to add creaminess and a little tang. Sour cream gives a slightly lighter, fresher flavor, while mayonnaise adds richness. Feel free to choose whichever suits your taste or dietary needs.
Can I add other vegetables to the tuna noodle bake?
Definitely! Frozen corn, diced bell peppers, or small chopped mushrooms can be great additions. Just soften them beforehand or ensure they cook fully during baking.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use a dairy-free sour cream or mayonnaise. Also, opt for a dairy-free milk substitute. This way, the creamy texture and flavor stay intact.
What’s the best way to get a crispy top on the casserole?
Sprinkling extra cheese on top is key, but for an even crispier crust, mix some breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese and sprinkle that before baking. Broiling the last few minutes also helps achieve a lovely golden finish.
Final Thoughts
There is something so wonderfully satisfying about digging into a warm, cheesy, and creamy dish like this Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Recipe. It’s a true classic that’s as easy to make as it is loved by all ages. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just craving a cozy meal, I encourage you to try this recipe. It’s reliable, delicious, and comforting every single time.
Print
Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake is a comforting and easy casserole made with tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, sweet peas, and a rich creamy sauce topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick family dinner, it combines convenience and classic flavors in one delicious baked dish.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz egg noodles
Protein & Vegetables
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1 cup frozen peas
Sauce & Dairy
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream or mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup milk
Seasonings
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook the noodles: Boil the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine drained tuna, frozen peas, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream or mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Combine noodles with filling: Add the drained noodles to the tuna mixture and gently fold everything together until the noodles are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Transfer to baking dish: Pour the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly for consistent baking.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle an additional layer of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for a golden, melty crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the cheese topping is golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Remove the bake from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving to let it set for easier portioning.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, substitute sour cream with mayonnaise or vice versa.
- You can add chopped onions or mushrooms for extra flavor if desired.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free egg noodles and a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Adding a breadcrumb topping mixed with melted butter can create a crunchy crust instead of just cheese.
