Name: Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Cheddar and Crispy Cornflake Topping Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 ounces egg noodles (one package); 1 tablespoon butter; 1 small onion, chopped; 2-3 celery stalks, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 10 ounces tuna (2 cans, packed in water); 10 1/2 ounces Cream Of Mushroom Soup (1 can); 3/4 cup whole milk; 1 cup cheddar cheese; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup crushed cornflakes; 1/2 cup cheddar cheese; 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped; 1-2 tablespoons melted butter; Extra cheddar cheese; Extra chopped parsley

Print Recipe·4 from 7 reviews

If you’re craving something that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate, this Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Cheddar and Crispy Cornflake Topping Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, and a luscious, cheesy sauce all baked beneath a perfectly crunchy cornflake topping that adds just the right amount of texture. This dish is an effortless crowd-pleaser that balances creamy, savory, and crispy elements in every bite, making it one of those beloved classics you’ll want to return to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white baking dish filled with a creamy noodle casserole. The top layer is made up of wide, soft egg noodles coated in a light beige sauce. Scattered evenly throughout the noodles are bright green peas, adding small bursts of color. The texture looks smooth and creamy with bits of finely shredded cheese and small pieces of cooked chicken mixed in. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with the casserole filling the dish completely and evenly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating its signature taste and texture. From the velvety cream of mushroom soup to the sharp cheddar cheese, every component contributes a tasty layer and makes this dish irresistibly good.

16 ounces egg noodles: The perfect base, offering a chewy, comforting texture that holds the sauce beautifully.
1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and helps soften the veggies for a tender bite.
1 small onion, chopped: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the casserole.
2-3 celery stalks, chopped: Offers a slight crunch and fresh aroma to balance the creaminess.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with that unmistakable savory warmth.
10 ounces tuna (2 cans, packed in water): Provides flaky chunks of protein and classic tuna taste.
10 1/2 ounces cream of mushroom soup: Creates the ultra-creamy base that ties everything together.
3/4 cup whole milk: Enhances the sauce’s smoothness and richness.
1 cup cheddar cheese: Sets the tone with sharp, melty goodness throughout the casserole.
1 cup frozen peas: Adds a pop of color and a touch of natural sweetness.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors in every ingredient.
1 cup crushed cornflakes: The secret to the crave-worthy crispy topping that completes the dish.
1/2 cup cheddar cheese: Mixed with cornflakes to create that irresistible golden crust.
1 tablespoon parsley, chopped: A fresh burst of herbaceous flavor and vibrant green color in the topping.
1-2 tablespoons melted butter: Coats the cornflake topping for crispness and richness.
Extra cheddar and parsley for garnish (optional): For a pretty, flavorful finish just before serving.

How to Make Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Cheddar and Crispy Cornflake Topping Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the oven and noodles

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing a 9×13” baking pan to prevent sticking. Then boil water for the egg noodles — cook them just halfway through the recommended time, about 6 minutes, so they stay firm enough for baking without turning mushy. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and keep them firm for the casserole.

Step 2: Sauté the aromatics

Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat, then add the chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic. Cook these until they just start to soften but still retain a slight crispness—this ensures the veggies bring freshness and a subtle crunch to contrast the creamy tuna mixture.

Step 3: Mix the creamy base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, sautéed vegetables, drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, frozen peas, and salt. Stir gently but thoroughly to blend all these ingredients into a deliciously creamy, cheesy mixture that’s bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the casserole

Pour the creamy tuna noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This will be the luscious layer waiting underneath your golden, crunchy topping.

Step 5: Make the crispy cornflake topping

In a separate bowl, combine crushed cornflakes, 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, and the melted butter. Toss these together so the cornflakes are fully coated in butter, which helps them bake up into a beautifully crisp and flavorful crust.

Step 6: Bake until golden and bubbly

Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the casserole. Bake everything in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown and the casserole is heated through and bubbling at the edges.

Step 7: Garnish and serve

Once out of the oven, add extra shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a vibrant, cheesy finish. Serve while hot and enjoy the delightful textures and rich flavors of this classic comfort food.

How to Serve Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Cheddar and Crispy Cornflake Topping Recipe

A white speckled baking dish filled with a creamy noodle casserole, showing three layers: the bottom layer is wide egg noodles mixed with green peas and small bits of white meat, coated in a smooth white sauce; the middle layer is also creamy noodles mixed with peas and meat; the top layer is a thick, golden crunchy topping made from toasted crumbs with some finely chopped green herbs sprinkled in; a wooden spoon lifts a portion of the casserole, revealing the soft noodles and peas underneath the crunchy top layer, all set on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese elevate the visual appeal and add bursts of fresh flavor. For an extra touch, you can add some crushed cornflakes on top for a second layer of crunch after baking.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus, which add fresh, vibrant notes that balance its creamy richness. Crusty bread is also a winning side to soak up any extra sauce on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions that look elegant and festive. Alternatively, spoon it over a bed of wilted spinach or roasted veggies for a colorful, nutrient-packed meal that feels fresh and fancy but still cozy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool the casserole completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or dinners later in the week.

Freezing

This Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Cheddar and Crispy Cornflake Topping Recipe freezes beautifully. Prepare and assemble the casserole, but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap before freezing. It will stay good for up to 2 months. When ready, bake it straight from frozen, adding extra baking time as needed until bubbly and crispy on top.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through to preserve the crunchy topping. Microwaving is faster but may soften the crust — if you use a microwave, consider crisping the topping afterward under a broiler for a minute or two.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of noodle for this casserole?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are classic for their texture and how they hold the sauce, you can swap in penne, rotini, or even macaroni. Just be sure to cook them to al dente and adjust cooking times as needed.

Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

Yes! You can lighten it up using low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheddar cheese or swap in Greek yogurt instead of cream of mushroom soup. Adding extra veggies like mushrooms or carrots can boost nutrition while keeping it delicious.

Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?

If you prefer, homemade cream sauce or a cream of celery or chicken soup can work wonderfully as a substitute, lending a similar creamy texture and flavor foundation to the casserole.

What can I do if I don’t have cornflakes for the topping?

No worries! Crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed potato chips can provide a lovely crunchy topping alternative that still creates that satisfying contrast.

How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?

You want the topping to be golden brown and the casserole bubbling around the edges. Typically, 20 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit is sufficient, but ovens vary, so keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Cheddar and Crispy Cornflake Topping Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that feels like homemade love on a plate. It’s easy to whip up, packed with comforting flavors and textures everyone at your table will adore. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to comfort food that’s perfect any night of the week.