Listen, between wrapping presents, setting the table, and trying not to burn the turkey, Thanksgiving cooking can feel like a marathon. That’s why I keep this air fryer tuna noodle casserole in my back pocket—it’s my secret weapon for when I need something comforting, quick, and absolutely delicious without the oven drama. I’ve been obsessed with my air fryer since I got it last year (seriously, it’s my most-used appliance now), and this casserole is one of those happy accidents that turned into a holiday staple. The crispy breadcrumb topping? The creamy tuna filling? It’s like the classic comfort food got a Thanksgiving makeover in half the time. My family actually requests this now instead of the fussier sides!
Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Air fryer Tuna Noodle Casserole
This isn’t just any casserole—it’s your new holiday lifesaver. Here’s why:
- Lightning fast: Done in under 30 minutes when the oven’s already stuffed with turkey
- Easy cleanup: One bowl, one air fryer basket—that’s it!
- Crispy magic: That golden breadcrumb topping puts every oven-baked version to shame
- Leftover genius: Swap turkey for tuna or use up extra veggies from your holiday prep
Trust me, once you try the air fryer method, you’ll never go back to soggy casseroles again.
Ingredients for Thanksgiving Air fryer Tuna Noodle Casserole
Grab these simple ingredients – most are probably already in your pantry! The magic happens when these humble items come together in the air fryer:
- 8 oz egg noodles – the wide kind hold the sauce best (but any pasta works in a pinch!)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – the casserole’s creamy backbone
- 1/2 cup milk – whole milk makes it richest, but any % works
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained – packed in water works great (save the oil-packed for salads)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas – no need to thaw, they’ll cook perfectly in the air fryer
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese – sharp cheddar gives the best flavor punch
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs – Panko makes it extra crispy
- 1 tbsp butter, melted – for that golden, buttery crunch on top
See? Nothing fancy – just good, honest ingredients that transform into something magical!
How to Make Thanksgiving Air fryer Tuna Noodle Casserole
Okay, let’s get cooking! This comes together so fast you’ll barely believe it. Just follow these simple steps and you’ll have that crispy-topped, creamy-centered goodness in no time.
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
First things first – get those egg noodles boiling in salted water. Now here’s my trick: cook them just 1 minute less than the package says (we want al dente, not mushy!). Drain them well – shake that colander like you mean it – because soggy noodles make a sad casserole.
Step 2: Mix the Casserole Base
Grab your biggest mixing bowl (I use the same one I make cookie dough in) and dump in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, tuna, and frozen peas. Don’t be shy – really stir it up until every flake of tuna is coated in that creamy sauce. The peas will thaw as you mix, promise!
Step 3: Assemble and Air Fry
Now the fun part! Pour your noodle mixture into an air fryer-safe dish (I use my trusty 7-inch round cake pan that fits perfectly). Sprinkle that cheddar cheese evenly over top – no cheese clumps allowed! Mix your breadcrumbs with melted butter until they’re all happy and coated, then sprinkle them over the cheese like you’re decorating a cake. Pop it in the air fryer at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Oh, that smell!
Pro tip: If your air fryer runs hot like mine does, check at 8 minutes – nothing worse than burnt breadcrumbs when you’re hungry!
Tips for the Best Thanksgiving Air fryer Tuna Noodle Casserole
Want to take your casserole from good to “can I get this recipe?” status? Here are my hard-earned kitchen secrets:
- Preheat that air fryer! Just 2-3 minutes makes all the difference for even cooking and crispier topping
- Fresh tuna hack: Swap canned for 6 oz of leftover roasted turkey or fresh seared tuna (chopped) for special occasions
- Double the crunch: Add crushed potato chips or French fried onions to your breadcrumb mix
- No sticking: Lightly grease your baking dish or use parchment paper – no one wants half their casserole left in the pan!
The best part? These little tweaks take seconds but make your casserole taste like you spent hours on it.
Variations for Your Thanksgiving Air fryer Tuna Noodle Casserole
This recipe is like your favorite sweater – comfy but easy to dress up! Here are my go-to twists when I’m feeling fancy or need to use what’s in the fridge:
- Veggie swap: Ditch the peas for chopped broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts (holiday vibes!)
- Gluten-free: Use your favorite GF noodles and crushed cornflakes instead of breadcrumbs
- Extra fancy: Stir in sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions before air frying
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños to the tuna mix
The beauty? You can’t mess this up – just keep the creamy base and crispy top, and play with the rest!
Serving Suggestions
This casserole shines brightest with holiday-worthy sides! My family loves it with a scoop of cranberry sauce (that sweet-tart pop cuts through the richness) or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon. For bigger gatherings, serve it alongside roasted Brussels sprouts – the crispy textures play so nicely together. And don’t forget the pickles! A few dill spears on the side make everything feel properly Thanksgiving-y.
Storage and Reheating
This casserole keeps like a dream! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions – they’ll stay good for 2 months. When reheating, pop it back in the air fryer at 325°F for 5-7 minutes to bring back that perfect crispy top. No soggy microwaved casserole here! (Pro tip: Add a fresh sprinkle of cheese before reheating for bonus melty goodness.)
Nutritional Information
Here’s the breakdown per serving (about 1 cup): 320 calories, 18g protein, 35g carbs. Remember – nutrition varies based on ingredients and brands you use!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Absolutely! Swap the canned tuna for 6 oz of fresh tuna (seared and flaked) or even leftover Thanksgiving turkey. Just adjust the salt since fresh fish isn’t preseasoned like canned. My mom loves making this with salmon after the holidays – genius!
What air fryer temperature works best?
350°F is the sweet spot for that perfect golden crust without burning the topping. But all air fryers run differently – if yours tends to run hot like mine, check at 8 minutes. You want bubbly edges and a crisp top that makes that satisfying crunch sound when you tap it with a spoon.
Can I make this ahead for Thanksgiving?
Yes! Assemble everything (noodles, sauce, toppings) up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. When ready, let it sit at room temp for 20 minutes before air frying – just add 2-3 extra minutes to the cook time since it’s starting cold. Holiday meal prep win!
Did you put your own spin on this recipe? Rate it below and tell me your favorite holiday twist – I’m always looking for new ideas!
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Thanksgiving Air Fryer Tuna Noodle Casserole in Just 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 22 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A quick and easy Thanksgiving-inspired tuna noodle casserole made in the air fryer.
Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
- Cook egg noodles according to package directions. Drain.
- Mix soup, milk, tuna, and peas in a bowl.
- Add cooked noodles to the mixture and stir well.
- Transfer to an air fryer-safe dish.
- Sprinkle cheese on top.
- Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over cheese.
- Air fry at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- Use fresh or canned tuna.
- Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer model.
- Add extra cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 12 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American