Irresistible Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe

Published:

by Aria

Leave a Comment

 

When it comes to summer comfort food, nothing screams “delicious nostalgia” quite like a Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole. Picture this: a creamy, dreamy blend of tender pasta, savory tuna, and a symphony of crunchy toppings that will have your taste buds dancing like nobody’s watching. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug after a long day, making every bite an adventure filled with flavor and texture.

Jump to:

This dish is not just about flavors it’s about memories too. I remember my grandmother making her famous tuna casserole every Sunday, filling the house with mouthwatering aromas that drew us all to the kitchen. The laughter, the stories shared over dinner, and the joy of digging into that bubbling goodness are moments I cherish. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a potluck with friends, this casserole is perfect for gatherings. Get ready for a culinary experience that will leave you craving more

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole is super easy to whip up, making weeknight dinners stress-free
  • Its rich and creamy flavor profile keeps everyone coming back for seconds
  • The colorful layers create an appealing visual feast on your table
  • It’s versatile enough to customize with whatever veggies you have on hand

I once made this casserole for a casual get-together, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about it one even joked about starting a fan club

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Egg Noodles: These are classic for casseroles they soak up flavors beautifully while keeping their shape.
  • Canned Tuna: Opt for high-quality tuna in water or oil it makes all the difference in flavor.
  • Frozen Peas: A pop of color and sweetness no need to thaw them beforehand.
  • Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is your secret weapon for creaminess don’t skip it
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for added flavor sprinkle generously on top before baking.
  • Bread Crumbs: For that irresistible crunchy topping consider using panko for extra crispiness.
  • Milk: Adds creaminess whole milk works best but any milk will do.
  • Onion Powder & Garlic Powder: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile.
  • Pepper & Salt: Season to taste don’t be shy

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter.

Cook the Noodles: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook your egg noodles until al dente, usually around 6-8 minutes. Drain well and return them to the pot.

Mingle the Ingredients: Add canned tuna (drained), frozen peas, cream of mushroom soup, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the pot with noodles. Stir until well combined.

Add Some Cheese: Fold in half of your shredded cheddar cheese into the noodle mixture. This addition makes everything creamy and cheesy trust me on this one

Transfer and Top It Off : Pour the noodle mixture into your greased baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top followed by breadcrumbs for that delightful crunch.

Bake to Perfection: Pop your casserole into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. The aroma will drive everyone wild

Now you have a hearty Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole ready to serve The combination of creamy goodness and crispy topping is simply irresistible Enjoy every delightful bite

You Must Know

  • This Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole is a delightful mix of flavors, perfect for warm weather gatherings
  • The creamy texture and fresh ingredients make it a family favorite, ensuring everyone leaves the table with a smile
  • It’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta until al dente then sauté your veggies while the noodles cook. Combine everything in a large bowl with the tuna and sauce for a seamless finish.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap tuna for chicken or add fresh herbs like dill for an extra flavor boost. You can even toss in leftover vegetables to reduce waste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to keep its creamy texture intact.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To elevate this Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole, consider using whole grain pasta for added nutrition
  • Ensure you drain the tuna well to avoid excess liquid
  • For a crispy top, sprinkle breadcrumbs before baking

Sharing this dish with my friends during a summer picnic created unforgettable memories, as they devoured it and requested seconds who doesn’t love that kind of validation?

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use other types of fish in this casserole?

Yes, you can substitute tuna with canned salmon or even shredded chicken.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply replace regular pasta with gluten-free pasta or zoodles for a lighter option.

What can I serve alongside Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole?

A crisp green salad pairs wonderfully and adds freshness to the meal.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Description

Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole is a nostalgic, creamy dish that warms the soul and delights the taste buds. This easy-to-make casserole features tender egg noodles, savory canned tuna, and vibrant frozen peas, all enveloped in a rich cream of mushroom sauce. Topped with crispy breadcrumbs and cheddar cheese, it’s perfect for summer gatherings or cozy family dinners. Enjoy this delicious comfort food that brings back cherished memories with every bite!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz egg noodles
  • 1 (12 oz) can of high-quality tuna (drained)
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the egg noodles in boiling salted water until al dente (6-8 minutes). Drain and return to the pot.
  3. Stir in drained tuna, frozen peas, cream of mushroom soup, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
  5. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

 

Next Recipe

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star