Tuna Salad Casserole
A creamy tuna casserole layered with noodles, cheddar cheese, crunchy almonds, and potato chips, offering comforting flavors perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the noodles until al dente, then drain.
- In a bowl, mix the cream of celery soup and evaporated milk; then dissolve the cheddar cheese into this mixture.
- In a separate bowl, combine the tuna, chopped and sautéed celery, chopped green pepper, and mayonnaise.
- Drain the cooked noodles and mix them into the soup and cheese mixture.
- Add the tuna mixture to the noodles and pour everything into a Pam-sprayed casserole dish.
- Sprinkle grated cheese, slivered almonds, and potato chips on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the tuna mixture. If you prefer a lighter casserole, substitute the mayonnaise with plain yogurt. You can also use whole wheat noodles for added fiber or swap in different cheeses like Monterey Jack for a unique flavor. If you want a crunchy topping, crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs work well.
Serving Suggestions
This Tuna Salad Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier side, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a warm baguette. You can also serve it as a main dish with a side of fruit for a refreshing contrast. For a fun twist, try it with a side of Zippy Shrimp Spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but be careful not to overheat to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Salad Casserole contains roughly 1339 calories, with 34g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 90g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (70% of the Daily Value), protein (67% of the Daily Value), and calcium (64% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1052mg per serving (46% 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 tuna in this recipe. Just cook it until it’s fully done, then flake it into the mixture. Fresh tuna will give a different texture and flavor, making the casserole even more delightful.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge when you put it in the oven.
What can I substitute for the cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can make a quick homemade version using a roux and adding sautéed celery for flavor. Alternatively, cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup can also work well in this casserole.
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).