Tuna Noodle Casserole with Peas and Cheddar
Creamy, comforting, and cheesy—this classic casserole is a crowd-pleaser with its golden top and hearty mix of tender noodles, tuna, and peas.
Total: 60 minPrep: 15 minCook: 45 min6 servingsDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.7 (123+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
Steps
- 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
- 2 Cook noodles according to package directions until al dente; drain.
- 3 In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, tuna, peas, soup, milk, cheddar cheese, celery, and onion. Season with salt and pepper.
- 4 Transfer mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- 5 In a small bowl, mix melted butter, bread crumbs, and paprika. Sprinkle over the casserole.
- 6 Bake for 30 minutes or until bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- 7 Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Oven
Variations
- Add diced red bell pepper for extra color and sweetness.
- Substitute half the cheddar with mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Substitutions
- If cream of mushroom soup is unavailable, use cream of chicken soup.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese.
Pairings
- Cornbread
- Steamed broccoli
Nutrition
Calories:
380 kcal
Fat:
18g fat
Carbs:
32g carbohydrates
Protein:
22g protein
Fiber:
2g fiber
Sugar:
4g sugar
Sodium:
600mg sodium
Tips
- For extra flavor, sauté the celery and onion in a bit of butter before adding to the casserole.
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add an extra 10 minutes to the cook time.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake covered at 350°F for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 10-15 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp green salad.
- Pair with warm dinner rolls.
FAQ
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just blanch fresh peas in boiling water for 1-2 minutes before adding them to the casserole.