Name: 35-Minute Tuna Noodle Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups egg noodles, uncooked; 2 cans tuna, drained and flaked (5 oz each); 1 cup frozen peas; 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 4 tablespoons butter, divided; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional); ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

What if dinner could be creamy, crispy, and comforting—all in just over half an hour? This 35-Minute Tuna Noodle Casserole is the kind of throwback classic that never goes out of style. It marries tender noodles, flaky tuna, and sweet peas in a luscious cheese sauce, all topped with a golden, buttery breadcrumb crust. It’s quick enough for a weeknight yet cozy enough to bring to a potluck or share with family on a chilly night.

This version keeps it simple and satisfying, with minimal prep and pantry-friendly ingredients. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug—nostalgic, hearty, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or looking to feed a crowd, this dish delivers comfort by the forkful.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the perfect Tuna Noodle Casserole in just 35 minutes, having the right tools on hand will speed up the process and make cleanup easier:

Large pot for boiling noodles: You’ll need this to cook your pasta to al dente. A big pot prevents crowding and uneven cooking.
Colander: Drains noodles efficiently so they don’t overcook.
Large mixing bowl: This is where everything gets combined—tuna, peas, sauce, and noodles.
Medium saucepan: Essential for preparing the cheese sauce smoothly.
Whisk: Ensures lump-free sauce when combining flour, milk, and cheese.
Baking dish (9×13 preferred): The casserole needs room to bake evenly and develop a crispy topping.
Oven or toaster oven: For that signature golden crust, broiling at the end is a must.
Spatula or serving spoon: Helps scoop out hearty portions without destroying the crispy topping.

These basic tools transform a humble list of ingredients into a crave-worthy meal that hits the table fast.

Ingredients for the 35-Minute Tuna Noodle Casserole

Each ingredient in this casserole plays a comforting and practical role in building flavor and texture:

Egg noodles: Their tender, slightly chewy texture makes them ideal for holding up in a creamy casserole.
Canned tuna: A pantry staple that adds protein and heartiness without requiring cooking ahead.
Frozen peas: These little bursts of sweetness balance the richness and add a touch of color.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Brings bold, melty flavor to the sauce and keeps the dish deeply satisfying.
Butter: Used for both the sauce and the breadcrumb topping, adding richness.
All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce into a creamy, cohesive base.
Milk: Creates a smooth and velvety cheese sauce.
Salt and pepper: The simplest seasoning duo that sharpens all the flavors.
Garlic powder (optional): Adds a subtle depth to the sauce.
Panko or regular breadcrumbs: For that irresistible crunchy topping.
Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle on top for freshness and color.

How To Make the 35-Minute Tuna Noodle Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add egg noodles and cook until al dente, usually about 6-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw taste. Slowly pour in 2 cups of milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.

Step 3: Mix It All Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained noodles, flaked tuna, frozen peas, and cheese sauce. Mix gently until evenly coated.

Step 4: Assemble and Top

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle over the top. Add a bit of parsley if desired.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. For extra crunch, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Remove from oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the creamy, crunchy comfort straight from the dish!

How to Serve and Store the 35-Minute Tuna Noodle Casserole

This casserole is a meal on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for balance. Serve it hot right from the baking dish with a big spoonful for that perfect scoop of crispy topping and creamy center.

Leftovers? Even better the next day. Simply store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to preserve the crust or microwave for a quicker option.

Freezing is also an option. Wrap the baked and cooled casserole tightly in foil or freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of tuna works best?

Solid white albacore tuna gives a meaty texture, but chunk light tuna works just fine too if you prefer a milder taste.

Can I substitute the peas?

Yes! Chopped steamed broccoli or corn are great alternatives. You can also skip the veggies and serve them on the side.

How do I keep the topping crispy when reheating?

Use the oven or toaster oven to reheat. Avoid the microwave if keeping that golden crust is a priority.

Can I make this ahead?

Definitely. Assemble the casserole up to the breadcrumb topping, cover, and refrigerate. Add the topping right before baking.

Is there a gluten-free version?

Yes, just use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. Make sure your breadcrumbs are gluten-free too.

What if I don’t have cheddar cheese?

Feel free to experiment! Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses can work. Just choose one that melts well.

Want More Comfort Food Casserole Ideas?

If you’re loving this cozy 35-Minute Tuna Noodle Casserole, here are a few more hearty bakes to try next:

You might also like the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, which delivers creamy comfort with every bite and is just as weeknight-friendly. Or explore the flavors of Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta, a rich and savory option with a bold tomato-meat base.

If you want something slightly spicy, try the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe for a fiery twist on a classic layered favorite. For a fun pizza-inspired variation, the Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is always a family hit. And if you’re in the mood for Southern comfort, the Amish Country Casserole Recipe brings a touch of rustic nostalgia to your table.

Each of these recipes brings something special and filling to your weeknight menu rotation.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your dinner boards for easy access later. Just click the Pin button and revisit when you need that nostalgic casserole fix.

If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Did you add extra cheese? Try it with a crunchy topping twist? Leave a comment and share your take. I always enjoy seeing how you make these your own.

For more cozy casseroles and family-favorite dinners, follow along on my Pinterest at LadyPlate.