Tuna Noodle Bake
A comforting casserole combining tender noodles, flaky tuna, creamy vegetables, and melted cheese, all baked to bubbly perfection. This dish offers a savory, satisfying meal that's easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, appealing to seafood lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles following directions on the package.
- Combine cooked noodles, drained tuna, mayonnaise, chopped celery, frozen peas, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- In a saucepan, blend cream of celery soup and milk until smooth.
- Heat the soup mixture thoroughly over medium heat.
- Add shredded American cheese to the saucepan and stir until melted.
- Pour the cheese sauce into the noodle mixture and stir well.
- Turn the mixture into an ungreased 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered at 425°F for 20 minutes or until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream alongside the mayonnaise. If you prefer a lighter version, swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. You can also use any short pasta like penne or shells instead of medium noodles. For added flavor, sprinkle some garlic powder or onion powder into the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread or garlic bread for a satisfying dinner. For a refreshing drink, consider a chilled lemonade or iced tea to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Tuna Noodle Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Noodle Bake contains roughly 979 calories, with 18g protein, 142g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (37% of the Daily Value), iron (35% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1990mg per serving (87% 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 vegetables instead of frozen peas?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh vegetables! Just make sure to blanch them first to soften them slightly before mixing into the casserole. Fresh green beans or corn would be great alternatives.
Is there a gluten-free option for the noodles?
Definitely! Look for gluten-free pasta alternatives made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas. They can be a perfect substitute for traditional medium noodles without sacrificing flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the noodle mixture. You could also top the bake with crushed red pepper flakes before serving for an extra kick.
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).