Tuna-Noodle Salad Casserole
A comforting tuna‑noodle casserole packed with creamy celery soup, peppery pimentos, and golden cheddar—perfect for a quick family dinner or potluck crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles in boiling salted water until tender; drain.
- Combine noodles, drained tuna, sweet peas, mayonnaise, cream of celery soup, milk, diced onion, chopped pimento, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Pour mixture into a 9x12‑inch casserole dish and top with grated cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding an extra half cup of mayonnaise or a dollop of sour cream. You can substitute the medium noodles with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. If you prefer a different flavor, try using ranch dressing instead of mayonnaise. For added nutrition, incorporate chopped spinach or kale into the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Tuna-Noodle Salad Casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with crusty bread for a comforting dinner. For a delightful twist, consider serving alongside a side of Creamy-Nutty Tuna Sandwiches. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings as it can be made ahead of time.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven preheated to 350°F and cover with foil to prevent drying out, heating for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna-Noodle Salad Casserole contains roughly 1034 calories, with 26g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (62% of the Daily Value), calcium (59% of the Daily Value), and protein (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2768mg per serving (120% 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
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make the casserole healthier, you can use whole grain pasta, low-fat mayonnaise, and reduced-fat cream of celery soup. Additionally, adding more vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers can increase the nutritional value without compromising flavor.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. It may take a bit longer to heat 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).