If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that comes together with ease, look no further than this Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, and a luscious, cheesy sauce that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Ideal for weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish balances creamy richness with familiar flavors that everyone will adore. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to become one of your go-to family favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in creating the perfect harmony of texture, flavor, and color. From the tender egg noodles to the mild sweetness of peas, each element is simple yet essential for making a truly delicious Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Recipe.
- 12 oz egg noodles: They provide a soft, chewy base that soaks up all the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained: Flaky tuna adds protein and a mild, ocean-fresh flavor that complements the cheesy sauce.
- 1 cup frozen peas: These pop with sweetness and add a lovely green contrast to the dish.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: The ultimate creamy binder that infuses earthiness and moisture.
- ½ cup sour cream or mayonnaise: Adds richness and tanginess that takes the sauce to the next level.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping): Sharp and melty cheese brings depth and an irresistibly gooey finish.
- ½ cup milk: Balances the sauce, keeping it smooth and luscious.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory kick to round out the flavors.
- Salt & pepper, to taste: Enhances all the ingredients and ties everything together.
How to Make Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to make sure your tuna noodle bake doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly golden on the edges.
Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles
Boil the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. This ensures they hold their shape and texture in the bake. Drain them well and set aside so they’re ready to soak up all the creamy ingredients.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, frozen peas, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream or mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well seasoned.
Step 4: Combine Noodles and Sauce
Add your cooked noodles directly into the bowl and gently toss until every noodle is evenly coated by that luscious sauce. This step guarantees every bite is bursting with creamy, flavorful goodness.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the entire mixture into your prepped baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese on top for that irresistible melty crust. Bake the dish for 20 to 25 minutes until it’s bubbling and the cheese turns golden brown and slightly crispy.
Step 6: Let It Rest
Once baked, allow your tuna noodle bake to cool just a bit before serving. This helps the flavors settle and prevents any burns, making it easier to slice and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite.
How to Serve Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives bring a bright pop of color and freshness to balance the richness. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a few lemon zest curls can add an extra layer of flavor that’s both vibrant and inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair this creamy bake with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the dish’s richness. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or a simple side of steamed broccoli also work beautifully to bring texture and variety to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini ramekins with a golden cheese crust on top. You can also experiment by adding a crunchy breadcrumb topping seasoned with herbs and parmesan. This adds a wonderful contrast to the creamy layers beneath.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making the leftovers taste even better!
Freezing
This dish freezes well, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for the best texture. Alternatively, microwave individual portions, covering them loosely to keep moisture, but be cautious not to overcook to maintain creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use canned tuna in oil instead of water?
Yes, you can swap tuna in water for tuna in oil for a richer flavor. Just drain well so your bake doesn’t get oily, and consider reducing any added oil or butter in the recipe accordingly.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Use your favorite non-dairy milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives. Swap sour cream with a plant-based yogurt or mayo to keep that creamy texture intact without dairy.
Can I add other vegetables to this bake?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or even corn kernels. They’ll add more color and nutrition while complementing the savory flavors beautifully.
What other types of cheese work well?
While cheddar is classic and melty, you can try mozzarella for extra stretchiness, or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. A sharp white cheddar can also add a nice tangy bite if you want to experiment.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead and bake later?
Yes! Assemble the entire bake in the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it easy to have dinner ready when you are with minimal fuss.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully satisfying about a warm, cheesy tuna noodle bake that feels both nostalgic and comforting. This Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Recipe strikes the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and hearty, and it’s so simple to pull together any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and share it with the people you love—trust me, it’s a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Print
Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake is a comforting and hearty casserole perfect for a family dinner. It features tender egg noodles combined with tuna, peas, and a creamy cheese and mushroom sauce, then baked to golden perfection. Easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying, this dish makes a fantastic weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz egg noodles
Tuna Mixture
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream or mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup milk
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook noodles: Cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Mix tuna filling: In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, frozen peas, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream or mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
- Combine noodles with mixture: Add the cooked noodles to the bowl with the tuna mixture and toss gently until noodles are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble casserole: Pour the noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Add topping: Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool slightly before serving to allow it to set.
Notes
- You can substitute sour cream with mayonnaise to adjust the dish’s creaminess to your preference.
- For a lower fat version, use reduced-fat cheese and sour cream.
- Add a pinch of paprika or chopped herbs like parsley on top before baking for extra flavor.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
