Classic Tuna Casserole with Cheese: A Comforting Family Dinner Favorite

Creamy Cheesy Tuna Casserole with Crispy Topping

This delicious tuna casserole with cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines flaky tuna, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheddar for a family-friendly weeknight dinner. Ready in under an hour, it’s the perfect solution for busy evenings when you need something hearty and satisfying.

Why This Tuna Casserole with Cheese Is a Family Favorite

There’s something nostalgic about a bubbling tuna noodle casserole fresh from the oven. This classic American comfort dish combines budget-friendly pantry staples with creamy textures and savory flavors that both kids and adults love. The cheesy topping gets golden and crispy while the pasta underneath stays tender in its creamy sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3 cups elbow macaroni, cooked according to package directions
• 2 (5-ounce) cans chunk light tuna in water, drained
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• ¾ cup milk
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 cup crispy fried onions
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Cheesy Tuna Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook the macaroni in salted water until just al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than package directions). Drain well.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, 1½ cups of the cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, mayonnaise, thawed peas, diced onion, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly.
4. Add the cooked macaroni to the tuna mixture and gently fold until all pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Top the casserole with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar and the crispy fried onions.
7. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
8. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Tips for the Best Tuna and Cheese Casserole

• Pasta choice: While elbow macaroni is traditional, any medium pasta shape works well. Try rotini, shells, or penne for a different texture.
• Cheese varieties: Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor, but feel free to experiment with combinations like mozzarella and Gruyère for extra creaminess.
• Make ahead: This casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
• Storage: Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be reheated in the microwave or oven.

Customizing Your Tuna Casserole with Cheese

This versatile recipe can be adapted in many ways:

• Vegetable additions: Try adding diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or broccoli florets.
• Soup substitutions: Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup work beautifully in place of cream of chicken.
• Crunchy toppings: Crushed potato chips, buttered breadcrumbs, or crushed crackers make delicious alternatives to fried onions.
• Herb boost: Add fresh dill, thyme, or Italian seasoning for an aromatic flavor enhancement.

Why This Tuna Casserole Recipe Works

The combination of creamy soup, mayonnaise, and two layers of cheese creates a velvety sauce that coats every bite of pasta and tuna. The contrast between the crispy onion topping and the soft, cheesy interior makes this dish irresistible. Plus, it’s an excellent way to incorporate seafood into a family meal in a familiar, approachable format.

FAQs About Tuna Casserole with Cheese

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes! This casserole freezes beautifully. Prepare through step 5, but hold off on the cheese and crispy onion topping. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add the toppings, and bake as directed, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Absolutely. If using fresh tuna, cook and flake about 10 ounces of tuna steak before adding it to the mixture. The flavor will be different but equally delicious.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Try using whole wheat pasta, low-fat cheese, and light mayonnaise. You can also increase the vegetable content by doubling the peas or adding extra vegetables like spinach or carrots.

What can I serve with tuna casserole?

A simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing makes a perfect accompaniment to cut through the richness of the casserole. Steamed vegetables like green beans or asparagus also pair beautifully.

With its perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty tuna, this tuna casserole with cheese is sure to become a regular in your weeknight dinner rotation. Simple to prepare yet incredibly satisfying, it’s the ultimate definition of comfort food.