When the week gets busy and you want something warm and filling, this Tuna Casserole with Velveeta Cheese steps in like a quiet hero. It’s that kind of dish that reminds you of home, with its soft noodles bathed in creamy cheese and the satisfying crunch on top offering just enough texture to keep things interesting.
I remember the last time I made this — the kitchen smelled like a comforting hug. I was halfway through stirring the cheesy mixture when the phone rang, and I got distracted trying to jot down a quick note while everything was bubbling quietly on the stove. Somehow, the potatoes chips topping got a little uneven, but honestly, that just made it feel more homemade. When I finally sat down to eat, the first bite was everything: creamy, cheesy, with that salty tuna surprise and a hint of sweetness from the peas. The kind of meal that makes you forget whatever was stressing you out.
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s creamy and rich but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
- The crunchy potato chip topping adds personality — and yes, it’s a little indulgent.
- Comfort food with a nostalgic twist, perfect for family dinners or leftovers.
- It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. No need for fancy ingredients or complicated steps.
Don’t worry if you’re not an expert cook — this casserole is forgiving. If you’ve got a few minutes, you can get it ready, and the oven does the rest.
Print
Tuna Casserole with Velveeta Cheese
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
A creamy and comforting tuna casserole made with Velveeta cheese, tender noodles, and a crunchy topping. Perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
12 ounces egg noodles
2 cans (5 ounces each) tuna in water, drained
1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
1 cup milk
1 cup frozen peas, thawed
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup crushed potato chips
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, Velveeta cheese cubes, and milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the Velveeta is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
Add the drained tuna, thawed peas, chopped onion, black pepper, and garlic powder to the cheese mixture. Stir until well combined.
Fold the cooked egg noodles into the tuna and cheese mixture until evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix the crushed potato chips with the melted butter.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole, then top with the buttered potato chips.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Kitchen Notes
This casserole works well with a basic baking dish — nothing fancy needed. I usually serve it with a simple green salad to balance out the richness, but honestly, sometimes I just want it straight from the pan. If you’re curious, swapping out the peas for corn or green beans can change the vibe without much fuss. You could also experiment with a different crunchy topping, maybe breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, though I haven’t tested those enough to swear by them. For those who don’t love onions, try finely diced celery or skip it altogether.
FAQ
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned? This recipe is built around canned tuna for convenience and texture, so fresh tuna might change the dish quite a bit.
Is Velveeta necessary? Velveeta melts smoothly and gives that creamy texture, but if you don’t have it, a mild cheddar or processed cheese could work, just expect a slightly different consistency.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? You can assemble it and refrigerate for a few hours before baking, but the topping might get soggy if left too long.
Ready to cozy up with a bowl of cheesy warmth? Go ahead and save this recipe — your future self will thank you.