Save A comforting classic featuring tender noodles, creamy tuna sauce, and a buttery golden Ritz cracker topping, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
I first discovered this casserole as a simple weeknight meal and it quickly became a regular request in our home for its creamy texture and satisfying crunch.
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
- Prepare Oven & Dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook Noodles:
- Boil egg noodles in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Mix Casserole Ingredients:
- Combine drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, peas, cheddar cheese, sour cream, onion, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Fold in cooked noodles until coated.
- Assemble Casserole:
- Transfer mixture to prepared dish and spread evenly.
- Prepare Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and Parmesan cheese if using. Sprinkle topping over casserole.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until top is golden brown and casserole is bubbling.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Save Serving this casserole always reminds me of cozy gatherings around the kitchen table, with everyone asking for seconds and reminiscing about mom's classic comfort food.
Required Tools
Large pot, strainer, mixing bowls, 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, oven
Nutritional Information
Calories: 420, Total Fat: 22 g, Carbohydrates: 38 g, Protein: 20 g per serving
Notes
For added flavor, stir in sautéed mushrooms or diced celery. Substitute cream of celery or chicken soup for a variation.
Save This classic casserole brings everyone together for a warm, comforting dinner. Enjoy the mix of creamy sauce and crispy topping in every bite.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → What noodles work best in this dish?
Egg noodles are ideal for absorbing the creamy sauce while maintaining a tender bite, but other pasta shapes like rotini or shells can also be used.
- → Can I substitute the Ritz cracker topping?
Yes, crushed breadcrumbs or crushed saltine crackers can create a similar crisp topping with a slightly different flavor.
- → How can I add more vegetables to this bake?
Sautéed mushrooms, diced celery, or extra peas can easily be incorporated into the mixture for added texture and nutrients.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?
You can assemble the dish ahead, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake it just before serving for convenience.
- → What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
Alternative creamy soups such as cream of celery or cream of chicken provide different but delicious flavor profiles.