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Glass bowl filled with creamy chicken noodle casserole, green peas, and shredded cheddar cheese.

Easy Tuna Casserole {Classic Comfort Food}

This Easy Tuna Casserole is the ultimate classic comfort food, featuring tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, and sweet peas in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, all topped with a buttery, crunchy cracker crust. It's a simple, satisfying meal perfect for any weeknight.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 12 oz wide egg noodles
  • 2 cans tuna 5 oz each, packed in water or oil, well drained
  • 1 cup frozen peas thawed
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk whole or 2%
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp dried dill optional
For the Cracker Topping
  • 1 cup Ritz crackers crushed (about 1 sleeve)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet or Saucepan
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Whisk
  • Mixing Spoon

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the wide egg noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  3. Drain the canned tuna thoroughly, ensuring no excess liquid remains. Set aside.
Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
  1. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken or vegetable broth, a little at a time, to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and begins to simmer, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried dill (if using). Stir to combine.
Assemble the Casserole
  1. Add the drained egg noodles, drained tuna, and thawed frozen peas to the creamy cheese sauce. Gently mix until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  2. Pour the mixture into the prepared 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Add the Topping and Bake
  1. In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
  2. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. If desired, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the cracker topping.
  3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
  4. Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly. Serve hot and enjoy this classic comfort food!

Notes

For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.