Name: Creamy Tuna Casserole with Egg Noodles and Cheddar Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces egg noodles; 1 (10 1/4 ounce) can cream of celery soup; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 3/4 cup evaporated milk; 1 cup grated cheddar cheese, divided; 1/2 cup finely chopped celery; 1/2 small onion, finely chopped; 4 ounces mushrooms, drained (optional); 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 (7 ounce) can tuna, with juice

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 1 review

If you are searching for a comforting dish that brings together rich flavors and hearty textures, this Creamy Tuna Casserole with Egg Noodles and Cheddar Recipe is sure to become one of your go-to meals. Imagine tender egg noodles coated in a luscious, cheesy sauce with tender flakes of tuna, all baked to golden perfection. This classic casserole is simple to prepare but packed with pantry-friendly ingredients that create a cozy, satisfying dinner perfect for any day of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up view of a baked pasta dish served in a clear glass baking dish with a white cloth napkin beside it. The pasta has two main layers: the bottom layer consists of wide egg noodles mixed with creamy white sauce, visible slices of brown mushrooms, and small pieces of green celery; the top layer is a thick covering of melted golden-orange cheese with a slightly bubbly texture. A portion of the pasta is plated on a white round plate, arranged softly with noodles, cheese, celery bits, and mushroom slices, garnished with a small green basil sprig on top. A silver fork rests on the plate, partly inside the pasta. The dish is placed on a dark wooden surface with a white marbled texture background partially visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To whip up this delightful casserole, you only need a handful of simple ingredients. Each one plays a key role, from adding creaminess and tang to providing a gentle crunch and rich, melty cheese flavor.

8 ounces egg noodles: Provides the perfect firm yet tender base that holds the sauce beautifully.
1 (10 1/4 ounce) can cream of celery soup: The secret to the casserole’s velvety texture and subtle celery flavor.
1/2 cup mayonnaise: Adds extra creaminess and a hint of tang that brightens the dish.
3/4 cup evaporated milk: Enriches the sauce without overpowering other flavors.
1 cup grated cheddar cheese, divided: Sharp and melty, cheese gives the casserole that irresistible golden top and gooey interior.
1/2 cup finely chopped celery: Adds a refreshingly crisp bite and delicate green color.
1/2 small onion, finely chopped: Brings an aromatic depth that blends with the creamy sauce.
4 ounces mushrooms, drained (optional): Contributes an earthy, tender element for extra savory complexity.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Enhances all the flavors with a gentle, warming kick.
1 (7 ounce) can tuna, with juice: The star protein; it adds a hearty, ocean-fresh taste and flaky texture.

How to Make Creamy Tuna Casserole with Egg Noodles and Cheddar Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles

Begin by boiling the egg noodles in salted water until they are just al dente. This slight firmness is important because the noodles will continue to cook when baked, preventing any mushy results. Once cooked, drain them thoroughly to keep the casserole from becoming watery.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 325°F so it’s ready for baking once the casserole mixture is prepared. This moderate temperature ensures a gentle, even cook that melds flavors beautifully without drying out the dish.

Step 3: Mix All Ingredients

In a large casserole dish, combine the cooked egg noodles with cream of celery soup, mayonnaise, evaporated milk, chopped celery, onion, mushrooms if using, black pepper, tuna with juice, and half of your grated cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until every noodle is coated with the creamy, flavorful mixture.

Step 4: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This layer will melt and brown, giving the dish an irresistible golden crust with plenty of cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubble and Golden

Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye out for bubbling edges and melted cheese that turns a beautiful golden brown. This signals your Creamy Tuna Casserole with Egg Noodles and Cheddar Recipe is ready to enjoy!

Step 6: Serve Hot

Once baked, let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting time helps everything settle and makes it easier to scoop generous portions filled with creamy, savory goodness.

How to Serve Creamy Tuna Casserole with Egg Noodles and Cheddar Recipe

A serving of cheesy noodle casserole sits on a white plate with twisted egg noodles forming the base layer, creamy sauce coating the noodles, and melted orange-yellow cheese drizzled on top giving a bubbly texture. Pieces of browned mushrooms and small chunks of light green vegetables are mixed evenly through the layers. A fresh dark green basil sprig crowns the dish at the center. A silver fork rests partially in the food on the plate. In the background, a clear glass baking dish holds the rest of the casserole, all placed on a white marbled surface with a beige checkered cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can add a pop of color and flavor contrast. Try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top to brighten every bite with their fresh, herbal notes. A light dusting of paprika or some crunchy toasted breadcrumbs can also elevate the texture and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a hearty main course, so pairing it with something light is ideal. Crisp green salads with tangy vinaigrettes, steamed green beans, or roasted broccoli complement the creamy richness perfectly. For a touch of sweetness, roasted carrots or glazed peas also work wonderfully alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual family dinners, serve it straight from the casserole dish to keep things warm and cozy. If you want to impress guests, consider serving individual portions in small gratin dishes with extra cheese on top, then broiled for a minute for bubbly perfection. Adding a wedge of lemon on the side can invite diners to add a fresh citrus twist if they like.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing to maintain texture and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, it reheats beautifully with just a little care.

Freezing

If you want to prepare this Creamy Tuna Casserole with Egg Noodles and Cheddar Recipe ahead of time, it freezes well. Assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. Removing the foil at the end for a few minutes helps revive the golden cheese topping. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power with a cover for a quicker option, though the texture and crispness may be slightly reduced.

FAQs

Can I use other types of noodles in this casserole?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are classic for a creamy tuna casserole, you can swap in elbow macaroni, rotini, or even penne. Just be mindful to cook them al dente since they’ll soften further during baking.

Is it okay to use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?

You can use fresh tuna, but it requires cooking and flaking before mixing into the casserole. It will give a slightly different texture and a fresher, meatier bite compared to canned tuna, which is softer and more uniformly incorporated.

What can I substitute for cream of celery soup?

If you don’t have cream of celery soup on hand, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup instead. Alternatively, make a quick homemade white sauce with butter, flour, milk, and finely chopped celery for a fresh take.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cheese alternatives, mayonnaise, and milk substitutes like almond or oat milk. Taste and texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious and comforting.

How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Adding diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers can boost the veggie content. Sauté them lightly before mixing in to ensure they’re tender and flavorful within the casserole.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole, and this Creamy Tuna Casserole with Egg Noodles and Cheddar Recipe hits all the right notes with ease and heart. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or craving a nostalgic meal, it’s an inviting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. I hope you dive in and enjoy the cozy, cheesy goodness as much as I do!