Tuna Celery Bake
A creamy tuna and celery casserole with melted cheese and crunchy bread crumbs, perfect for comforting family dinners or easy weeknight meals with savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles in boiling, salted water until tender. Drain.
- Combine cream of celery soup and milk in a bowl.
- In a greased 1 1/2 quart casserole, layer noodles and tuna alternately.
- Pour the soup mixture over the layered noodles and tuna.
- Top with buttered bread crumbs and grated cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Garnish with stuffed olive slices and parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the soup mixture. If you want to boost the flavor, try using a can of tuna packed in olive oil instead of water. You can also substitute the grated cheese with a sharper cheese like cheddar for added richness. For a twist, add some frozen peas or corn to the layers for extra color and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
This Tuna Celery Bake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For added crunch, serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty rolls. If you're hosting, consider serving it alongside other American recipes like Mock Lobster Casserole or Tuna Corn Casserole for a comforting seafood-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covering them with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Avoid reheating multiple times to preserve texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Celery Bake contains roughly 135 calories, with 10g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.
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 a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any short pasta shape, such as penne or rotini, if you don't have Muellers Klops. Just ensure it is cooked according to package instructions until al dente for the best texture in the bake.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, remove the foil and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I add vegetables to this Tuna Celery Bake?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like diced bell peppers, chopped spinach, or even mushrooms can enhance the nutritional value and flavor. Just sauté them lightly before layering them in the casserole to ensure they're tender when served.
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).