"Aunt Diane'S Terrific Tuna Noodle Casserole"
A creamy tuna noodle casserole with cheddar cheese, tender macaroni, and crunchy vegetables, baked to perfection—ideal for comforting family dinners or weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in salted water until tender, then drain.
- Combine cooked macaroni, drained tuna, mayonnaise, sliced celery, chopped onion, diced green pepper, and salt in a large bowl.
- Blend cream of celery soup with milk and heat through.
- Add the heated soup mixture to the macaroni mixture and stir well.
- Stir in grated Cheddar cheese and sprinkle some on top.
- Turn the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered at 425°F for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more mayonnaise or using Greek yogurt as a substitute. If you want to add more vegetables, peas or corn can be great additions. For a twist, try using different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, to enhance flavor. This dish can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking, similar to Make Ahead Crab Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic bread. For a comforting family meal, consider serving it alongside American recipes like Un-Fried Catfish or a light soup, such as Papa's Oyster Stew.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through, covering with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Aunt Diane'S Terrific Tuna Noodle Casserole" contains roughly 589 calories, with 19g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value) and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2322mg per serving (101% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna, but it will require cooking before adding it to the casserole. Simply grill or bake the tuna, then flake it and mix it in as you would with canned tuna. This can enhance the flavor and add a fresh element to the dish.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make a gluten-free version, simply substitute the macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Additionally, ensure that the cream of celery soup is gluten-free or make your own using gluten-free ingredients. This allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy the dish without worry.
Can I freeze the tuna noodle casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This is a great way to prepare meals ahead of time for busy days.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).