Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Crispy Topping Recipe

If you’ve ever wished for a cozy, satisfying dinner that feels like a warm hug, you’re going to love this Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Crispy Topping Recipe. It’s that classic comfort food, made from scratch without any canned soup, featuring a creamy cheese sauce, tender shell pasta, flaky tuna, peas for a touch of sweetness, and a golden, crunchy panko topping that just sends it over the top. Whether you’re cooking for family or just want a quick, hearty meal, this recipe comes together effortlessly and tastes absolutely delicious.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Crispy Topping Recipe works together beautifully. I love how the shell pasta holds onto the creamy sauce, the peas add bursts of freshness, and the tuna flakes add a hearty protein punch. Quick tip: use good-quality canned tuna in water for the best texture and flavor.

• Panko breadcrumbs: This creates the irresistible crispy topping; don’t skip it!
• Olive oil (or melted butter): Helps crisp up the panko and adds richness.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, nutty note to the topping.
• Flat leaf parsley: For a pop of color and subtle freshness as a garnish.
• Shell pasta: I find this pasta shape perfect for scoopability and holding sauce.
• Unsalted butter: Used both in the sauce and to sauté veggies, controlling salt is easier this way.
• Celery: Adds a crunchy, aromatic layer to the base of the sauce.
• Shallots: Sautéed for a light sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Garlic: Just a clove for savory warmth—don’t overpower!
• Flour: The thickening agent for your homemade sauce.
• Dijon mustard: A little secret ingredient that brightens the sauce.
• Low sodium chicken broth: Keeps the sauce flavorful but not too salty.
• Milk (warmed): Using warm milk helps create a silky smooth sauce without lumps.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce for creamy cheesiness.
• Tuna in water: Flaked canned tuna gives protein and texture without heaviness.
• Frozen peas: Sweet pops of color and flavor that lighten up the casserole.

Variations

One thing I love about this Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Crispy Topping Recipe is how flexible it is—you can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!

• Swap Proteins: I’ve swapped tuna for cooked shredded chicken for a different twist—equally comforting!
• Veggie Boost: Sometimes I add mushrooms or broccoli for extra texture and nutrition.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives, plus olive oil instead of butter, to make this allergy-friendly.
• Spicy Touch: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the sauce if you like a little kick.

How to Make Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Crispy Topping Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Crispy Topping

Start by mixing the panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and olive oil or melted butter in a small bowl. This combination is pure magic when baked, creating that irresistibly golden, crunchy crust. Set it aside while you tackle the rest—this step really elevates the dish!

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Just Right

Cook the shell pasta according to package directions, but be sure to stop 1-2 minutes before it reaches al dente. Remember, the pasta will continue cooking in the oven absorbing all those yummy flavors, so you don’t want it too soft at this stage.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt one tablespoon of butter. Add the diced shallots, celery, and garlic along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the veggies soften and start smelling amazing. This forms the flavorful base of your creamy sauce.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Turn the heat down to medium-low and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. When melted, sprinkle the flour evenly over the veggies and stir continuously until you don’t see any white flour streaks. This is your roux, which will thicken the sauce perfectly. Next, whisk in the Dijon mustard for a subtle tang. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and warm milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Let the sauce simmer and thicken, then turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until silky smooth.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Tuna, and Peas

Add the cooked pasta, drained tuna, and frozen peas into the skillet with the cheese sauce. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated and the ingredients come together into a creamy, delicious mixture.

Step 6: Bake and Crisp the Topping

Sprinkle the panko topping mixture evenly over the casserole. Transfer the skillet (or pour into a casserole dish if you prefer) into the preheated 350°F oven. Bake for about 25 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is gorgeously golden and crispy. Serve immediately and watch everyone dig in!

How to Serve Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Crispy Topping Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling fresh flat leaf parsley over the top right before serving—it adds a lovely pop of green and fresh flavor that balances the cheesy richness. Sometimes a little extra grated Parmesan on top doesn’t hurt either!

Side Dishes

To keep things simple and comforting, I usually serve this casserole with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans also pair beautifully and add a fresh crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual family dinner, this casserole shines right out of the skillet. But for a special occasion, try serving it in individual ramekins topped with the crispy panko—everyone gets their own perfectly golden portion, and it looks charming on the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers covered tightly in an airtight container in the fridge where they stay fresh for up to 3 days. The casserole might lose some crispiness, but it’s still delicious and comforting.

Freezing

This casserole freezes surprisingly well. I freeze it before baking for easy prep and bake from frozen with an extra 10-15 minutes in the oven, or freeze baked leftovers for convenience. Just label your container and you’ve got a ready-to-go meal.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop leftovers in the oven at 350ºF for about 15-20 minutes, covering loosely with foil to prevent drying out. For a bit of crisp on the topping, uncover the last 5 minutes. Microwaving works too—just cover and heat gently in 30-second bursts to avoid drying.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Crispy Topping Recipe has become one of my go-to meals when I want something comforting but quick. I love how you can taste the real ingredients and how the crispy topping adds that perfect contrast to the creamy layers beneath. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this casserole feels like home and always gets big smiles around the table. I’m confident it’ll be a favorite for you too—go ahead and give it a try, and you might just find it becoming your own comfort food classic!

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