Tuna Noodle Casserole

When you need a cozy, no-fuss dinner that feels like home, Tuna Noodle Casserole is the answer. This creamy, baked pasta dish is packed with flavor, simple to make, and perfect for sharing with friends or family. It’s one of those classic comfort foods that always hits the spot—and it’s just right for dropping off to someone who could use a little extra love.

If you’d prefer chicken, try my Chicken Spaghetti — it has the same rich, creamy homemade sauce and makes a wonderful meal to share.

Ingredients for Homemade Tuna Noodle Casserole

• 1 pound of egg noodles
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil 
• 4 Tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced small
• 2 celery ribs, chopped small
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 cans (about 6 ounces each) of solid light tuna packed in water, drained and flaked
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• Coarse salt and ground pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions for Tuna Noodle Casserole

1. Boil the Pasta
Cook the egg noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water until tender. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Creamy Tuna Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the diced onion and celery and cook until soft. Stir in the flour to coat.

3. Add the Wine, Broth, and Cream
Pour in the white wine and let it cook down for a minute or two. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth. Reduce the heat and stir in the cream until smooth.

4. Combine Noodles, Tuna, and Peas
Gently stir in the noodles, tuna, and peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Add the Breadcrumb Topping
Transfer everything to a 9×13 baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs with the remaining melted butter and sprinkle over the top.

6. Bake Until Golden Brown
Place under the broiler just until the breadcrumb topping is golden and crisp.

Serve this classic Tuna Noodle Casserole with a nice big salad and a loaf of crusty bread for the perfect comforting meal. Don’t hesitate to make it easy—there are so many great salad kits and delicious bakery breads you can pick up right at the store. And if you’re up for just a little more baking, try my Chocolate Chip Pie for dessert. It’s simple to make, absolutely delicious, and the perfect sweet ending to a cozy, homemade meal.

Why This Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe Works

• Simple ingredients – nothing fancy, just pantry staples.
• Comforting flavors – creamy, savory, and familiar.
• Perfect for sharing – bakes in a 9×13 dish that’s easy to cover and deliver.

Tuna Noodle Casserole is one of those tried-and-true recipes that never goes out of style. Whether you’re serving it at home or delivering it to a friend, it’s warm, hearty, and full of love. I’d love to hear if you make this — share in the comments how it turned out!

And if cooking isn’t in the cards right now, that’s okay too! A gift card to a favorite restaurant or grocery store is still a thoughtful way to show you care.

More Comforting Recipes

If you’re looking for the perfect sweet treat to go with this casserole, here are a few reader favorites:

• Toll House Pie – A rich, gooey chocolate chip pie that’s perfect for sharing.
• Snickerdoodle Bar Cookies – Soft, chewy bars with that classic cinnamon-sugar flavor.
• Strawberry Crumb Bars – Sweet, fruity bars with a buttery crumb topping.
• Chocolate Chip Cookies – A timeless favorite that’s always welcome with any meal delivery.