If you have a craving for a comforting, nostalgic dish that brings warmth and a satisfying combination of flavors, then you absolutely must try this Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Crispy Panko Topping Recipe. It’s a timeless favorite that marries tender egg noodles with flaky tuna and vibrant peas, all enveloped in a rich, mushroom-infused creamy sauce. What truly makes this casserole stand out is the irresistible crunchy panko and cheddar topping that adds just the right amount of texture contrast. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish easily earns its spot as a go-to weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, pantry-friendly staples that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Each one plays an essential role—from the creamy mushroom soup that binds everything to the crisp panko topping that delivers a golden, cheesy crunch.
- Egg noodles (12 oz): Perfectly tender noodles form the comforting base of this casserole.
- Frozen peas (1 cup): Adds a pop of color and a sweet, fresh bite.
- Condensed mushroom soup (2 cans, 10 1/2 oz each): The secret to creamy, rich sauce that ties all ingredients together.
- Tuna (2 cans, 5-6 oz each): Provides flaky protein with a mild, satisfying flavor.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Lightens the sauce making it silky smooth.
- Cheddar cheese (2 cups total): One cup mixed inside for melty goodness, and one cup in the topping for extra savoriness.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
- Panko bread crumbs (1 cup): Creates that gorgeous crispy topping everyone loves.
- Butter (2 tbsp, melted): Binds the panko crumbs and cheese for that perfect golden crust.
How to Make Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Crispy Panko Topping Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by heating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it’s coming up to temperature, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. This simple preparation ensures your casserole won’t stick and makes cleaning up afterward a breeze.
Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping
In a small bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs with melted butter and a generous cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well until all crumbs are evenly coated and the cheese is integrated. Set this aside—it’s going to add the perfect crunchy and cheesy finish that elevates the whole casserole.
Step 3: Cook the Egg Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until they are just al dente—meaning still a little firm to the bite. Drain the noodles and allow them to cool slightly, so they don’t overcook later in the oven.
Step 4: Mix the Casserole Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, thawed peas, condensed mushroom soup, drained tuna, milk, and one cup of cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to your liking, then stir everything gently but thoroughly. This mixture is the hearty and creamy heart of the casserole.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the tuna noodle mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish. Then, sprinkle the crispy panko and cheese topping evenly across the surface. This layered arrangement lets the topping crisp up beautifully while the casserole bakes.
Step 6: Bake
Pop the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye out for bubbling sauce and a lovely golden-brown crust forming on top—that’s your sign the dish is ready to dive into.
Step 7: Serve
Once baked, let your casserole rest for a few minutes. This brief break helps it settle and makes serving a cinch. Then grab a big spoon and enjoy that extraordinary combo of creamy, cheesy, flaky, and crispy in every bite.
How to Serve Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Crispy Panko Topping Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives brighten the casserole with their fresh green color and light herbal notes. A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or a few dashes of paprika can also add flair and flavor.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with simple green salads dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a crisp counterpoint. Roasted vegetables, like broccoli or carrots, complement the creaminess while adding wholesome nutrition.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for a charming personal touch. Or layer it over toast points for a unique open-faced casserole experience that’s perfect for casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool the casserole completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days; this preserves the flavors and texture while keeping the dish safe to eat.
Freezing
This Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Crispy Panko Topping Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Assemble the casserole but hold off on baking, then wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready, bake straight from the freezer, adding extra cooking time.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes until heated through. Removing the foil in the last 5 minutes helps restore the crunchy topping.
FAQs
Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of condensed mushroom soup?
Absolutely! You can sauté fresh mushrooms with some butter and flour to create a homemade mushroom sauce. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning and liquid amounts to achieve the same creamy consistency.
Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta and choose gluten-free panko bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping. This minor adjustment keeps the dish accessible without sacrificing texture.
Can I add other vegetables to this tuna casserole?
Definitely. Vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or even mushrooms work well. Just steam or sauté them lightly before mixing to ensure they cook fully in the casserole.
What kind of tuna works best for this recipe?
Chunk light tuna packed in water is ideal due to its mild flavor and firm texture. It blends well with the creamy sauce without overwhelming the dish.
How can I make the panko topping extra crispy?
Using melted butter to coat the panko crumbs is key, as it helps create that golden crispiness. Baking uncovered at a slightly high temperature, like 425°F, also encourages a crunchy topping.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Crispy Panko Topping Recipe is the kind of comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s easy to make, full of hearty flavors, and has that perfect blend of creamy and crispy textures that keep you coming back for more. Don’t wait to bring this delicious, family-friendly casserole into your kitchen rotation—it’s sure to become an all-time favorite!
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Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Crispy Panko Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A classic and creamy tuna casserole featuring tender egg noodles, savory mushroom soup, sweet peas, and melted cheddar cheese, topped with a crunchy panko and cheese breadcrumb crust. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this easy-to-make dish bakes to golden perfection in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1 cup frozen peas, defrosted
Casserole Base
- 2 (10 1/2 oz) cans condensed mushroom soup
- 2 (5-6 oz) cans tuna, drained
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper and set aside for later use.
- Make the Crumb Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the panko bread crumbs, melted butter, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese until evenly combined. Set this mixture aside for the topping.
- Cook the Egg Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix the Casserole Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, defrosted peas, condensed mushroom soup, drained tuna, milk, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well until everything is evenly blended.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the noodle and tuna mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the prepared crumb topping evenly over the casserole to cover the surface.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy a creamy, crunchy tuna casserole that comforts and satisfies.
Notes
- You can substitute the frozen peas with fresh or other vegetables like green beans or corn for variety.
- Use low-fat or skim milk to reduce the fat content if desired.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free egg noodles and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To add extra flavor, consider mixing in a teaspoon of garlic powder or herbs like thyme or parsley to the casserole mixture.
