Name: Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz egg noodles; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 small onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 (5 oz) cans tuna (drained); 1 cup frozen peas; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs; 1 tbsp melted butter

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re looking for comfort food that delivers on both creamy texture and savory flavor, this Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake will hit all the right notes. With tender egg noodles and tender flakes of tuna folded into a rich, cheesy sauce, every bite is pure nostalgia. Easy enough for a busy weeknight but decadent enough for a cozy weekend meal, this dish makes sure everyone at your table leaves satisfied. Let’s dive in—your next favorite casserole starts right here!

Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simple ingredient list fool you—each addition brings something uniquely wonderful to our Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake. These classic pantry and fridge staples join forces to create a harmonious blend of creamy, cheesy, and comforting flavors.

Egg noodles (12 oz): Choose wide egg noodles for maximum sauce-y coverage and that satisfying bite.
Unsalted butter (2 tbsp): Adds richness; opt for unsalted to control the seasoning.
Chopped onion (1 small): Brings a savory sweetness that underpins the entire dish.
Minced garlic (2 cloves): For depth and a little aromatic zing—fresh garlic works best.
All-purpose flour (1/4 cup): The backbone of the creamy sauce, keeping it thick and luscious.
Milk (2 cups): Whole or 2% milk gives the sauce its silky base.
Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds tang and extra creamy texture—Greek yogurt is a fine substitute.
Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): For even more richness and a subtle flavor boost.
Dijon mustard (1 tsp): Brightens the flavors and adds a gentle kick to the sauce.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Brings all the flavors together.
Black pepper (1/4 tsp): Just enough to balance the other flavors without overpowering.
Canned tuna, drained (2 cans, 5 oz each): Flaky, mild, and packed with protein—tuna is the star!
Frozen peas (1 cup): Adds color, sweetness, and a bit of texture.
Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully for vivid color and a savory finish.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Offers a sharp, salty flavor punch right on top.
Crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Delivers irresistible crunch to your Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake.
Melted butter (1 tbsp): Helps the topping toast up perfectly golden brown.

How to Make Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the egg noodles. Cook them according to the package directions just until al dente—you want them to have a little bite since they’ll cook further in the oven. Drain well and set aside. This ensures your Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake won’t be soggy in the end!

Step 2: Start the Aromatics

While the noodles cook, melt your unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, letting it soften and release its natural sweetness for about 3–4 minutes. Next, add your minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds—don’t let it brown—just enough to wake up those wonderful aromas!

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, whisking constantly for about a minute to form a quick roux. This flour-butter base is crucial for thickening the sauce and creating that signature creamy consistency in your Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps, then cook until the sauce thickens and just starts to bubble—about 4–5 minutes.

Step 4: Stir in the Creamy Fillings

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything’s smooth and velvety. Add the drained tuna, frozen peas, and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring gently until the cheese melts into the sauce and the peas are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Assemble and Add the Topping

Now for the fun part: Fold the cooked noodles into your beautiful creamy sauce until everything is thoroughly coated. Spoon the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and level it out. In a small bowl, stir together the crushed buttery crackers or panko with melted butter, then sprinkle it evenly over the casserole. Finish with a generous scattering of grated Parmesan cheese. This is the layer that’s going to bake up golden and satisfying!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 20–25 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbling, golden-brown topping. Let your Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake rest for about 5 minutes before serving—it helps everything set and intensifies the flavor.

How to Serve Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. If you’re feeling indulgent, a touch more grated Parmesan or a few twists of cracked black pepper can work wonders right before serving.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake loves the company of simple green salads, steamed broccoli, or roasted carrots. Crusty bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for sopping up every last bit of sauce on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking the casserole in individual ramekins for a dinner-party-ready look! Or bring it straight to the table in a colorful casserole dish so your guests can scoop their own generous portions. Even leftovers can be served in a toasted bread bowl for a little extra flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow any extra Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—the flavors just get better as they mingle together.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully! Wrap the unbaked (or baked and cooled) bake tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave for quick lunches, or rewarm the whole casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through. If needed, add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce so every bite tastes freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While egg noodles bring classic texture, rotini, penne, or fusilli are also great choices for holding onto the creamy sauce in your Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten free?

Yes! Simply swap the regular egg noodles for your favorite gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. Make sure your cracker or breadcrumb topping is gluten free as well.

What if I’m not a fan of tuna—can I use a different protein?

You sure can. Canned salmon works beautifully as a substitute, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a fun change in your Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Be sure not to overbake, and always cover any leftovers tightly before reheating. Adding a bit of milk or extra cheese when reheating helps lock in that luscious creaminess we all love.

Can I add extra veggies?

Go for it! Sautéed mushrooms, diced carrots, or even chopped spinach are all welcome additions that play well with the creamy, cheesy base of the Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake.

Final Thoughts

I really hope you’re inspired to whip up a batch of Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake—this dish is all about easy comfort with a big payoff. Gather your loved ones and dig in to a casserole that feels like a warm hug, bite after bite!

Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 19 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in this comforting and creamy Tuna Noodle Bake, a classic American dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner. Tender egg noodles, savory tuna, and a cheesy sauce come together to create a satisfying meal that will please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

12 oz egg noodles
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 small onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk

Sauce and Seasonings:

1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Additional Ingredients:

2 (5 oz) cans tuna (drained)
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs
1 tbsp melted butter

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Make sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter, sauté onion, add garlic, sprinkle flour and make a roux. Whisk in milk until thickened, then add sour cream, mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper.
Combine ingredients: Stir in tuna, peas, and cheddar cheese. Fold in cooked noodles.
Prepare topping: Mix crushed crackers or panko with melted butter. Sprinkle over casserole along with Parmesan cheese.
Bake: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.