Old Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole RECIPE on dinnerin321.com

Old Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole RECIPE on dinnerin321.com is a easy American recipe that serves 6. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Dinner in 321 Laura Ashley Johnson on YouTube.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 40 min | Total: 1 hr 5 min

Cost: $14.51 total, $2.42 per serving

Ingredients

  • 12 oz Egg Noodles (cook al dente, then drain)
  • 1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup (regular condensed soup (10.5 oz))
  • 0.5 cup Milk (whole milk recommended)
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas (thawed before mixing)
  • 2 cans Canned Tuna (5 oz each, drained)
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (sharp cheddar, shredded)
  • 0.5 tsp Garlic Powder (optional)
  • 0.5 tsp Onion Powder (optional)
  • to taste to taste Salt (kosher or sea salt)
  • to taste to taste Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 2 tbsp Butter (melted for topping)
  • 0.5 cup Cracker Crumbs (crushed Ritz or similar)

Instructions

  1. Cook Egg Noodles

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the egg noodles, and cook according to package directions until al dente.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: boiling

  2. Drain Noodles

    Drain the noodles in a colander and set aside; you may rinse briefly with warm water to stop cooking.

    Time: PT2M

  3. Mix Soup Base

    In a large mixing bowl combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, thawed peas, drained tuna, 1 cup shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and the cheese begins to melt.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Combine Noodles and Sauce

    Add the cooked noodles to the bowl and toss until every noodle is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.

    Time: PT3M

  5. Grease Baking Dish

    Lightly grease the 13x9‑inch baking dish with butter or non‑stick spray.

    Time: PT1M

  6. Transfer to Dish

    Pour the noodle‑soup mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer.

    Time: PT2M

  7. Add Cheese Topping

    Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

    Time: PT1M

  8. Prepare Cracker Crumb Topping

    In a small bowl combine the cracker crumbs with the melted butter and stir until the crumbs are lightly coated.

    Time: PT2M

  9. Add Crumb Topping

    Evenly sprinkle the buttered cracker crumb mixture over the cheese layer.

    Time: PT1M

  10. Bake Casserole

    Place the dish in a pre‑heated oven and bake at 375°F for 25‑30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling throughout.

    Time: PT30M

    Temperature: 375°F

  11. Rest Before Serving

    Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving so it sets and is easier to cut.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
20 g
Carbohydrates
30 g
Fat
15 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Contains dairy, Contains fish, Contains gluten, High protein, Comfort food

Allergens: Fish (tuna), Dairy (cheese, butter), Gluten (egg noodles, cracker crumbs)

Last updated: April 7, 2026

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Old Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole RECIPE on dinnerin321.com

Recipe by Dinner in 321 Laura Ashley Johnson

A classic American comfort dish that combines tender egg noodles, creamy mushroom soup, peas, and flaky tuna, topped with cheddar and buttery cracker crumbs. Easy to assemble and bake, this casserole brings back nostalgic home‑cooking memories.

EasyAmericanServes 6

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
17m
Prep
45m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 12m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$14.51
Total cost
$2.42
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Cooking the noodles al dente ensures they don’t become mushy after baking
  • Baking until the topping is golden brown gives the signature crunchy texture
  • Mixing the cracker crumbs with melted butter creates a buttery, crisp topping

Safety Warnings

  • Handle boiling water with care to avoid burns
  • Use oven mitts when removing the hot baking dish
  • Ensure tuna is fully drained to prevent excess liquid

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Tuna Noodle Casserole in American comfort food cuisine?

A

Tuna noodle casserole became popular in mid‑20th‑century America as an inexpensive, shelf‑stable family dinner, often served at church gatherings and pot‑lucks. Its convenience and creamy texture made it a staple of post‑war convenience cooking.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Tuna Noodle Casserole in United States cuisine?

A

In the Midwest, cooks often add corn and use cream of celery soup; in the South, a dash of hot sauce or Cajun seasoning is common. Some New England versions substitute crushed oyster crackers for the topping.

cultural
Q

How was Tuna Noodle Casserole traditionally served in American home‑cooking culture?

A

It was typically baked in a shallow casserole dish, served hot straight from the oven, and accompanied by a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Leftovers were reheated for lunch the next day.

cultural
Q

During what occasions or celebrations is Tuna Noodle Casserole traditionally associated in American culture?

A

It is a go‑to dish for church pot‑luck dinners, school fundraisers, and family reunions because it can be made in large batches and feeds a crowd affordably.

cultural
Q

How does Tuna Noodle Casserole fit into the broader American comfort food tradition?

A

It embodies the comfort food ethos of using pantry staples—canned tuna, noodles, and condensed soup—to create a warm, hearty, and nostalgic meal that evokes family gatherings and simple home cooking.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Tuna Noodle Casserole versus acceptable substitutes?

A

The classic recipe calls for egg noodles, canned tuna, cream of mushroom soup, peas, and a buttery cracker crumb topping. Substitutes include other short pastas, canned salmon, frozen mixed vegetables, and panko breadcrumbs for the topping.

cultural
Q

What other American side dishes pair well with Tuna Noodle Casserole?

A

A crisp green salad with vinaigrette, steamed broccoli, or buttered green beans complement the creamy casserole and add freshness to the meal.

cultural
Q

What makes Tuna Noodle Casserole special or unique in American cuisine?

A

Its combination of pantry‑stable proteins and carbs, creamy mushroom sauce, and crunchy topping creates a textural contrast that has made it a beloved, budget‑friendly comfort staple for generations.

cultural
Q

How has Tuna Noodle Casserole evolved over time in American home cooking?

A

Originally a wartime convenience dish, it has evolved with healthier twists—using low‑fat soup, whole‑wheat noodles, and added vegetables—while still retaining its nostalgic flavor profile.

cultural
Q

What are common misconceptions about Tuna Noodle Casserole?

A

Many think it must be overly salty or greasy, but careful seasoning and using a light soup or reduced‑fat dairy keep it balanced. It’s also not limited to canned tuna; fresh fish can be used.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Tuna Noodle Casserole at home?

A

Overcooking the noodles, using too much soup which makes the dish watery, and skipping the buttered crumb topping are frequent errors. Follow the timing and ensure the topping is evenly buttered for crispness.

technical
Q

Why does this Tuna Noodle Casserole recipe use cream of mushroom soup instead of a homemade roux?

A

The canned soup provides a quick, consistent cream base that mimics a roux without extra butter and flour, keeping the recipe fast and budget‑friendly while still delivering a rich flavor.

technical
Q

Can I make Tuna Noodle Casserole ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes—assemble the casserole (without the crumb topping) and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. For longer storage, freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole in a sealed container for up to 2 months and bake from frozen, adding extra bake time.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Dinner in 321 Laura Ashley Johnson specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Dinner in 321 Laura Ashley Johnson focuses on recreating vintage and classic American recipes, offering step‑by‑step tutorials that blend nostalgic flavors with modern cooking tips.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Dinner in 321 Laura Ashley Johnson's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?

A

Laura Ashley Johnson emphasizes historical context, uses budget‑friendly pantry staples, and often shares personal anecdotes, whereas many channels prioritize trendy or gourmet twists on classic dishes.

channel

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