Liz'S Tuna Casserole
A creamy tuna casserole with tender noodles, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion, celery, and green pepper.
- Cook noodles according to package instructions.
- Heat cream of celery soup and milk together.
- Add shredded cheese to the soup mixture and stir until melted.
- Combine cooked noodles, tuna, and sautéed vegetables with the cheese sauce.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish and bake at 425°F for about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a splash of lemon juice to the cheese sauce. If you're short on fresh veggies, frozen mixed vegetables can be a quick substitute. You can also use any pasta shape you have on hand, like penne or macaroni, instead of the noodles. This dish is versatile and can be made ahead of time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a fun twist, consider serving alongside Tuna Shortcakes for a delightful seafood-themed dinner. This dish is sure to please family and friends alike.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Liz'S Tuna Casserole contains roughly 866 calories, with 13g protein, 173g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (43% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1767mg per serving (77% 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 cooked tuna for a fresher flavor. Just make sure to flake it similarly to canned tuna and adjust the seasoning to taste. Fresh tuna may require a longer cooking time to ensure it's heated through properly.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make a healthier version of this casserole, consider using whole grain noodles and low-fat mayonnaise. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding broccoli or peas, or replacing some of the cheese with Greek yogurt for creaminess without the extra calories.
Can I freeze the tuna casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and it will keep for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes for a convenient meal option!
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).