Craving a comforting, budget-friendly dinner that your whole family will love?
These 10 exceptional tuna casserole recipes transform the classic dish into memorable meals that combine creamy textures with satisfying flavors.
From traditional egg noodle versions to modern twists featuring crispy potato chip toppings and vibrant vegetables, you’ll discover fresh ways to prepare this timeless favorite.
Whether you prefer a quick 30-minute dinner or a made-from-scratch masterpiece, these recipes deliver the perfect balance of convenience and taste.
Classic Cream of Mushroom Tuna Casserole
Classic Cream of Mushroom Tuna Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, and creamy mushroom sauce into one delicious dish.
This family-favorite recipe takes less than an hour to prepare and serves as a perfect weeknight dinner option that’ll warm your heart and satisfy your appetite.
Ingredients:
• 12 oz egg noodles
• 2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of mushroom soup
• 2 (5 oz) cans chunk light tuna, drained
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup crispy fried onions
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, tuna, peas, diced onion, and garlic powder.
Step 4: Drain the noodles and add them to the mixture, stirring gently to combine.
Step 5: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
Step 6: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Step 7: Remove foil, add crispy fried onions, and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcook your noodles as they’ll continue to soften while baking in the casserole. For the best results, let your casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken properly.
Mediterranean Herb and Olive Tuna Bake
Transform your ordinary tuna into a delightful Mediterranean-inspired casserole that combines the richness of olive oil, the saltiness of olives, and the freshness of herbs.
This hearty dish brings the flavors of the Mediterranean coast right to your dinner table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
• 3 cans (5 oz each) chunk light tuna in water, drained
• 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice
• 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 red onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, juiced
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine tuna, cooked quinoa, olives, tomatoes, and red onion.
Step 3: Add minced garlic, oregano, basil, olive oil, and lemon juice. Mix well.
Step 4: Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 5: Top with crumbled feta cheese.
Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through and cheese begins to golden.
Pro Tip: For the best texture, don’t break up the tuna too finely when mixing – keep some chunks intact. You can prepare this dish up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Cheesy Broccoli Tuna Noodle Supreme
Transform your ordinary tuna casserole into a creamy, cheesy delight that combines tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, and fresh broccoli.
This comforting dish brings together protein-rich tuna and nutritious broccoli in a velvety cheese sauce that your whole family will love.
Ingredients:
• 12 oz egg noodles
• 2 cans (5 oz each) chunk light tuna, drained
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup crushed crackers
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Step 2: Cook egg noodles according to package directions, adding broccoli during the last 3 minutes.
Step 3: In a large bowl, mix soup, milk, sour cream, 1½ cups cheese, and seasonings.
Step 4: Drain noodles and broccoli, then combine with the sauce mixture and tuna.
Step 5: Transfer to the baking dish and top with remaining cheese.
Step 6: Mix crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
Step 7: Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Pro Tip: Make sure you don’t overcook the broccoli during the boiling process – it should be slightly firm when adding to the casserole. For the best results, use medium-sized broccoli florets to ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
Creamy Potato and Tuna Comfort Casserole
Transform simple ingredients into a heartwarming casserole that combines tender potatoes, flaky tuna, and a rich, creamy sauce.
This budget-friendly dish delivers comfort food at its finest, perfect for family dinners or meal prep throughout the week.
Ingredients:
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 2 cans (5 oz each) chunk light tuna, drained
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme or parsley)
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 2: Boil potato slices in salted water until tender but firm, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 3: In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté onions and garlic until soft.
Step 4: Add flour and stir for 1 minute, then gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth.
Step 5: Mix in tuna, peas, and half the cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Layer potatoes in the baking dish, pour over the creamy mixture.
Step 7: Top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs.
Step 8: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Pro Tip: For the creamiest results, let your casserole rest for 10-15 minutes after baking before serving. You can also prep this dish ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Crunchy Onion-Topped Tuna Delight
Transform your everyday tuna into a delectable casserole that combines creamy textures with a satisfying crunch.
This family-friendly dish brings together the richness of tuna with mushroom soup, creating a hearty meal that’s both comforting and impressive enough for guests.
Ingredients:
• 2 cans (5 oz each) chunk light tuna, drained
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup cooked egg noodles
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1 cup crispy fried onions
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup diced onion
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix tuna, mushroom soup, milk, diced onion, and garlic powder.
Step 3: Fold in the cooked noodles, peas, and half of the shredded cheese until well combined.
Step 4: Transfer the mixture to your prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
Step 5: Top with remaining cheese and crispy fried onions.
Step 6: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbling and the top is golden brown.
Pro Tip: For the best texture, let your casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. You can also prepare this dish up to 24 hours in advance – just add the crispy onions right before baking to maintain their crunch.
Four-Cheese Tuna and Shell Pasta Bake
Four-Cheese Tuna and Shell Pasta Bake is a comforting, creamy dish that combines the richness of multiple cheeses with tender pasta shells and flaky tuna.
This hearty casserole is perfect for family dinners and makes excellent leftovers for busy weekdays.
Ingredients:
• 16 oz medium pasta shells
• 2 (5 oz) cans chunk light tuna, drained
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 cups whole milk
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Step 2: Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 3: In a large saucepan, melt butter and sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
Step 4: Add flour and whisk for 1 minute to create a roux.
Step 5: Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until sauce thickens.
Step 6: Stir in three cheeses (reserving feta), until melted and smooth.
Step 7: Fold in tuna, peas, and cooked pasta.
Step 8: Transfer to baking dish, top with feta, breadcrumbs.
Step 9: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Pro Tip: For the best texture, don’t overcook your pasta shells as they’ll continue to cook in the oven. Also, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set properly.
Garden Vegetable Tuna Casserole
Transform your everyday tuna into a comforting, nutritious meal that your whole family will love.
This creamy casserole combines flaky tuna with fresh garden vegetables and a golden, crispy topping that makes every bite delightful.
Ingredients:
• 2 cans (5 oz each) chunk light tuna, drained
• 2 cups egg noodles
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup diced onion
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 cup crushed crackers
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
Step 2: Cook egg noodles according to package instructions, drain and set aside.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine tuna, vegetables, soup, cheese, milk, onion, and celery.
Step 4: Add cooked noodles to the mixture and stir gently.
Step 5: Pour mixture into prepared casserole dish.
Step 6: Mix crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
Step 7: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Pro Tip: For the best texture, don’t overcook the noodles since they’ll continue cooking in the oven. You can also prep this casserole a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake – just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
Spicy Southwest Tuna and Rice Bake
Transform your ordinary tuna casserole into a zesty Southwestern delight that brings warmth and flavor to your dinner table.
This budget-friendly dish combines the protein-packed goodness of tuna with Mexican-inspired spices, creating a satisfying meal your whole family will love.
Ingredients:
• 2 (5 oz) cans of chunk light tuna, drained
• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• 1 cup chunky salsa
• 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: diced avocado, fresh cilantro, lime wedges
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, tuna, black beans, corn, and bell peppers.
Step 3: Add salsa, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Step 4: Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
Step 5: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Let stand for 5 minutes before serving with your chosen toppings.
Pro Tip: To prevent your rice from becoming mushy, make sure it’s completely cooled before mixing with other ingredients. For the best flavor, choose a chunky salsa that isn’t too watery, as this will help maintain the perfect texture in your casserole.
Spinach and Artichoke Tuna Pasta Casserole
Craving a comforting, protein-packed dinner?
This Spinach and Artichoke Tuna Pasta Casserole combines the beloved flavors of a classic spinach-artichoke dip with hearty tuna and pasta.
This budget-friendly dish creates a creamy, satisfying meal that your whole family will love.
Ingredients:
• 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
• 2 cans (5 oz each) chunk light tuna, drained
• 10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Step 2: Mix cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and garlic in a large bowl until smooth.
Step 3: Fold in drained spinach, artichokes, tuna, and 1 cup mozzarella cheese.
Step 4: Add cooked pasta and stir until well combined. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Transfer to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Pro Tip: Make sure to thoroughly drain your spinach by squeezing it in a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. This prevents your casserole from becoming watery. You can also prep this dish ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Asian-Inspired Sesame Tuna Noodle Bake
Transform your regular tuna casserole into an Asian-inspired delight that combines the comfort of a classic bake with exciting Eastern flavors.
This dish features tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, and crispy vegetables, all tied together with a creamy sesame sauce and topped with a crunchy panko crust.
Ingredients:
• 12 oz egg noodles
• 2 cans (5 oz each) chunk light tuna, drained
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 2 cups cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Step 2: Cook egg noodles according to package instructions, then drain.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine soup, milk, sesame oil, soy sauce, and ginger paste.
Step 4: Add cooked noodles, tuna, peas, carrots, and green onions to the sauce mixture.
Step 5: Transfer to the baking dish. Mix panko with sesame seeds and sprinkle on top.
Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Pro Tip: To achieve the perfect crispy top, broil for the final 2 minutes while watching carefully. Make sure to drain the tuna thoroughly to prevent a watery casserole.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a classic tuna casserole creamy and flavorful?
The best tuna casseroles combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, and shredded cheese for ultimate creaminess. Adding sautéed onions and celery enhances the flavor profile while maintaining the comfort food appeal.
How can you prevent your tuna casserole from becoming too dry?
Cover your casserole with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking to lock in moisture. Adding an extra 1/4 cup of milk to your mixture ensures the noodles won’t absorb too much liquid.
What are the best pasta types to use in tuna casserole?
Medium egg noodles and rotini work best as they hold sauce well and maintain their texture. You can also use shell pasta or fusilli for excellent sauce-catching capabilities.
How can you add extra vegetables to your tuna casserole without changing its classic taste?
Incorporate frozen peas, diced carrots, or chopped broccoli during the final mix. These vegetables blend seamlessly with the creamy sauce while adding nutrition and color.
What’s the best way to achieve a crispy top on your tuna casserole?
Top your casserole with a mixture of crushed crackers or breadcrumbs and butter. Broil for the final 2-3 minutes until golden brown for perfect crunchiness.
Final Thoughts
Now you’re ready to create the perfect tuna casserole, whether you choose a classic recipe or experiment with modern variations.
Remember to select high-quality tuna and cook your pasta al dente for the best results.
Don’t hesitate to make the dish your own by adjusting seasonings or adding your favorite vegetables.
You can prepare most of these casseroles ahead of time and freeze them for up to three months.
For the creamiest texture, always let your casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
