Save to Pinterest A comforting classic featuring tender noodles, creamy tuna sauce, and a buttery golden Ritz cracker topping—perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
This casserole has been a family favorite for years and always brings everyone to the table with smiles.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) egg noodles
- Casserole Mixture: 2 cans (5 oz/140 g each) tuna in water, drained, 1 can (10.5 oz/300 g) condensed cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk, 1 cup (115 g) frozen peas, thawed, 1 cup (120 g) shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream, 1/2 small onion, finely chopped, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp salt
- Topping: 1 sleeve (about 30) Ritz crackers, crushed, 3 tbsp (45 g) unsalted butter, melted, 2 tbsp (15 g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook Noodles:
- Cook egg noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, peas, cheddar cheese, sour cream, onion, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Fold in the cooked noodles until evenly coated.
- Assemble Casserole:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Prepare Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter (and Parmesan cheese, if using). Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 25 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this dish during cozy family dinners or casual potlucks for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser moment.
Required Tools
Large pot, Strainer, Mixing bowls, 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, Oven
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 420, Total Fat 22 g, Carbohydrates 38 g, Protein 20 g
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (noodles crackers), milk (cheese butter sour cream), fish (tuna). May contain soy (soup) egg (noodles). Always check labels for hidden allergens.
Save to Pinterest This casserole strikes the perfect balance between creamy and crunchy. It’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of noodles are best for this casserole?
Egg noodles cooked until just tender work best, providing a soft yet slightly firm texture that holds the creamy tuna sauce well.
- → Can I substitute the Ritz cracker topping?
Yes, crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs can be used to achieve a similar crispy, golden crust.
- → How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Sautéed mushrooms or diced celery blend nicely into the mixture, adding flavor and texture without overpowering the creamy base.
- → Is it necessary to drain the tuna before mixing?
Yes, draining prevents extra moisture from making the casserole soggy, keeping the texture balanced and creamy.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
It can be assembled in advance and refrigerated before baking, which allows the flavors to meld and makes timing easier.
- → What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently in the oven to preserve the crispy topping and creamy interior without drying out.