Good Ole' Tuna
A comforting casserole combining tuna, creamy soup, crunchy chow mein noodles, and vegetables, baked to perfection—ideal for quick weeknight dinners and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Mix drained tuna, cream of chicken or mushroom soup, milk, chopped onion, and chopped celery in a bowl.
- Layer chow mein noodles and the tuna mixture in a baking dish.
- Top with remaining chow mein noodles.
- Place pats of butter on top and season with black pepper.
- Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more milk or using sour cream instead of milk. You can also swap out the tuna for canned chicken for a different protein option. If you like a bit of crunch, toss in some crushed potato chips or top with grated cheese before baking. This dish is similar to a comforting casserole like Cheesy Chicken And Macaroni Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this tuna dish with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or rolls for a heartier option. For a fun twist, try serving it alongside a classic American recipe like Hurry Up Chicken And Dumplings for a comforting dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Good Ole' Tuna contains roughly 483 calories, with 10g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (133% of the Daily Value), iron (21% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium.
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 tuna?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna, but it will require cooking and flaking before mixing it into the dish. Canned tuna is more convenient and provides a consistent flavor, but fresh will add a unique taste.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade cream sauce. You can also try a can of vegetable soup for a different flavor profile.
Can I freeze this dish for later?
Yes, this tuna casserole can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover tightly and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. If already baked, reheat from frozen, adding extra time to ensure it's heated through.
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).