Low-Cost Tuna Noodle Casserole

Featured in: Cozy Weeknight Meals

Whip up a hearty meal with simple pantry staples: flaky tuna, egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and peas. Mix ingredients and bake with optional breadcrumbs or cheddar topping for golden crunch. This dish promises comforting flavors with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy evenings. Enjoy flexibility by adding sautéed onions or celery, or swapping in lighter ingredients. Quick to prepare and easy to clean up, it pairs well with a fresh green salad and is sure to please the entire family.

Updated on Fri, 31 Oct 2025 13:07:00 GMT
Creamy Low-Cost Tuna Noodle Casserole topped with crispy breadcrumbs and cheese.  Save
Creamy Low-Cost Tuna Noodle Casserole topped with crispy breadcrumbs and cheese. | crumbnest.com

A comforting, budget-friendly casserole featuring tender egg noodles, creamy mushroom sauce, and flaky tuna—perfect for busy weeknights.

I grew up with tuna noodle casserole on our dinner table whenever my family needed something fast and hearty. It’s still my go-to for busy evenings because everyone always asks for seconds.

Ingredients

  • Egg noodles: 8 oz (225 g), tender-cooked
  • Tuna in water: 1 can (5 oz/140 g), drained
  • Cream of mushroom soup: 1 can (10.5 oz/300 g)
  • Milk: ½ cup (120 ml)
  • Frozen peas: 1 cup (135 g)
  • Breadcrumbs (optional): ½ cup (30 g)
  • Shredded cheddar cheese (optional): ½ cup (60 g)

Instructions

Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 350 F (175 C).
Boil Noodles:
Cook egg noodles in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions until just tender. Drain and return to the pot.
Make Sauce:
In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
Combine & Mix:
Add drained tuna, frozen peas, and soup mixture to the noodles. Stir gently until well combined.
Assemble Casserole:
Transfer mixture to a lightly greased 2-quart (2-liter) casserole dish.
Add Toppings:
Sprinkle breadcrumbs and/or shredded cheddar evenly over the top if desired.
Bake:
Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until hot and bubbling.
Rest & Serve:
Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Savory Low-Cost Tuna Noodle Casserole featuring tender noodles and flaky tuna.  Save
Savory Low-Cost Tuna Noodle Casserole featuring tender noodles and flaky tuna. | crumbnest.com

My kids love scooping out big helpings of this casserole, and it brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone worked together to prepare the meal.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad or simple steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner.

Nutritional Information

Each serving has about 320 calories, 11 g fat, 36 g carbohydrates, and 19 g protein.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven until warm or microwave for convenience.

Hearty Low-Cost Tuna Noodle Casserole, perfect for family dinners on a budget. Save
Hearty Low-Cost Tuna Noodle Casserole, perfect for family dinners on a budget. | crumbnest.com

This tuna noodle casserole is fuss-free and satisfying every time. Make it for dinner tonight and enjoy both nostalgia and great taste!

Recipe FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, substitute egg noodles with rotini, penne, or any short pasta you prefer. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Is it possible to add vegetables?

Absolutely! Sautéed onions, chopped celery, or bell peppers are great additions for extra flavor and nutrition.

How can I lighten the dish?

Use reduced-fat soup and low-fat milk, or skip the cheese topping to make the dish lower in calories and fat.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, assemble the casserole ahead and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve, adding 5–10 minutes to baking time if chilled.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Choose gluten-free noodles and soup. Also, use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you add a crunchy topping.

Low-Cost Tuna Noodle Casserole

Tender noodles, creamy sauce, and tuna unite in this affordable, hearty dish. Easy to make and perfect for weeknights.

Prep duration
10 min
Cook duration
20 min
Complete duration
30 min
Created by Chloe Martin


Skill Level Easy

Heritage American

Output 4 Portions

Dietary considerations None specified

Components

Pasta & Grains

01 8 ounces egg noodles

Seafood

01 1 can tuna in water, drained (5 ounces)

Dairy & Pantry

01 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 ounces)
02 1/2 cup milk

Vegetables

01 1 cup frozen peas

Optional Toppings

01 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
02 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

Phase 01

Preheat Oven: Set oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Phase 02

Cook Noodles: Boil egg noodles in a large pot of salted water according to package directions until just tender. Drain and return to the pot.

Phase 03

Prepare Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk cream of mushroom soup with milk until evenly blended.

Phase 04

Combine Ingredients: Add drained tuna, frozen peas, and the soup mixture to the noodles. Stir gently until thoroughly combined.

Phase 05

Fill Casserole Dish: Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 2-quart casserole dish.

Phase 06

Add Toppings: Sprinkle breadcrumbs and shredded cheddar evenly over the top if desired.

Phase 07

Bake: Place dish in oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until bubbling and heated through.

Phase 08

Rest and Serve: Allow casserole to stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Tools needed

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • 2-quart casserole dish
  • Spoon or spatula

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and seek medical guidance if you're uncertain about ingredients.
  • Contains gluten (egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup, breadcrumbs), dairy (soup, milk, cheddar cheese), fish (tuna). Some soup brands may contain soy or other allergens—check labels if sensitive.

Nutritional information (each portion)

These values are approximate guides only and shouldn't replace professional medical consultation.
  • Energy: 320
  • Fats: 11 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Proteins: 19 g