If you’re looking for a cheap, easy, and delicious meal that the whole family will love, this Tuna Casserole is the perfect choice. Made with affordable pantry staples, this creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd on a budget.
With simple ingredients like pasta, canned tuna, and a creamy sauce, this classic comfort food comes together in just 30 minutes! Whether you’re on a tight budget, looking for an easy dinner idea, or just craving a warm and hearty meal, this Tuna Casserole is a must-try.
Why You’ll Love This Cheap and Delicious Tuna Casserole Recipe
✔️ Super Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable pantry staples.
✔️ Easy to Make – Just mix, bake, and enjoy!
✔️ Creamy & Flavorful – A rich, cheesy, and comforting dish.
✔️ Feeds a Family – Perfect for meal prepping or large families.
✔️ Customizable – Add veggies, different cheeses, or breadcrumbs for variety.
Ingredients for Cheap and Delicious Tuna Casserole
Main Ingredients:
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2 cups pasta (elbow, egg noodles, or any kind you have)
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2 (5-ounce) cans of tuna, drained
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
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1 cup milk (or water for a more budget-friendly option)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Topping:
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½ cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping)
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2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, but adds extra crunch)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Tuna Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
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Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Tuna Casserole Mixture
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In a large mixing bowl, combine:
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Drained tuna
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Cream of mushroom soup
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Milk
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Shredded cheese
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Salt, pepper, and garlic powder
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Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Add the cooked pasta to the dish.
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Pour the tuna mixture over the pasta and mix well.
Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping
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In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter.
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Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
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Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
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Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Tuna Casserole
🍽️ Classic Pairing – Serve with steamed vegetables or a simple green salad.
🍞 Comfort Food Style – Enjoy with buttery garlic bread.
🧀 Extra Cheesy – Sprinkle additional cheese on top before baking.
🌽 Add Veggies – Mix in peas, corn, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storing Leftovers
🔹 Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
🔹 Freeze: Wrap in foil and place in a zip-top bag, then freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
✔️ Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
✔️ Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
✔️ Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes for a crispy top.
FAQs – Everything You Need to Know
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Yes! You can use macaroni, penne, rotini, or egg noodles.
What’s the Best Tuna to Use?
Canned chunk light tuna in water is the most budget-friendly option.
Can I Make This Without an Oven?
Yes! You can mix everything in a pot on the stove, heat until warm, then serve.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Mushroom Soup?
You can substitute it with cream of chicken, cream of celery, or homemade white sauce.
Variations & Customizations for Tuna Casserole
🔥 Spicy Tuna Casserole – Add hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes.
🥦 Veggie-Packed – Mix in broccoli, peas, or carrots for extra nutrients.
🧀 Extra Cheesy – Add Parmesan or mozzarella for even more cheesy goodness.
🍗 Protein Boost – Swap tuna for shredded chicken or ground beef.
Why This Cheap and Delicious Tuna Casserole is a Must-Try!
✔️ Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor – Just mix, bake, and enjoy.
✔️ Perfect for Meal Prep – Stays fresh for days and freezes well.
✔️ Kid-Friendly – Even picky eaters love this creamy, cheesy dish.
✔️ Better Than Store-Bought Dinners – Homemade, flavorful, and budget-friendly.
This Cheap and Delicious Tuna Casserole is a lifesaver for anyone who needs a quick, satisfying, and affordable meal.
