Old Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole: A Comfort Classic That Never Fails

Creamy, cheesy, crunchy-topped, and oh-so-nostalgic — this Old Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole is the kind of dish that brings generations together around the table. It’s a cozy weeknight wonder built on pantry staples, filled with hearty egg noodles, flaky tuna, and a luscious cream sauce, all crowned with a golden crunchy topping.

Born out of necessity and cherished for its comforting taste, tuna noodle casserole became a staple in 1950s and ‘60s kitchens. Today, it still holds its place as one of the most beloved American casseroles — budget-friendly, endlessly customizable, and downright delicious.

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🐟 Why You’ll Love This Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

• Made from pantry staples – tuna, cream of soup, egg noodles, and milk
• Feeds a crowd – perfect for big families, potlucks, and leftovers
• Old-school delicious – the flavor of childhood, church suppers, and grandma’s kitchen
• Easy to prep ahead – assemble now, bake later
• Freezer friendly – make two, freeze one

Whether you’re new to this retro dish or have been making it for decades, this recipe hits the mark with perfect balance — creamy, savory, and lightly crisped on top.

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🛒 Ingredients (Original + Optional Add-ins)

This recipe sticks to the authentic, old-fashioned version — no fancy twists unless you want them.

✅ Original Core Ingredients:

• 12 oz wide egg noodles
• 2 (5 oz) cans tuna, drained
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of celery or cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup milk
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup frozen peas (optional)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1½ cups crushed potato chips or buttered breadcrumbs, for topping

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🔄 Optional Add-ins (All Tested and True):

• Diced onions or sautéed celery – for added texture
• Chopped pimentos or roasted red pepper – for color and sweetness
• Sour cream (¼ cup) – for creamier texture
• Dill, thyme, or parsley – for fresh flavor
• Crumbled Ritz or buttery panko – for topping twist
• Hot sauce – for a little zing

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👨‍🍳 How to Make Old Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole

1. Cook the Noodles

Boil the egg noodles in salted water until al dente (1 minute less than package recommends). Drain and set aside.

Pro Tip: Slightly undercooking the noodles prevents them from becoming mushy during baking.

2. Make the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, combine:

• Cream of mushroom soup
• Cream of celery (or chicken)
• Milk
• Garlic powder
• Salt & pepper
• Cheddar cheese
• Tuna (flaked)
• Optional peas or add-ins

Mix until smooth and evenly combined.

3. Combine with Noodles

Gently fold the cooked noodles into the sauce mixture until coated.

4. Transfer to Baking Dish

Spoon into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Smooth the top.

5. Add Topping

Sprinkle evenly with crushed potato chips, breadcrumbs, or your topping of choice.

6. Bake

Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.

Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

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🧀 Tips for Best Results

• Use solid white albacore tuna for the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t skip the topping – the crunch is essential!
• Want creamier casserole? Add an extra splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream.
• Mix cheeses – try a combo of cheddar and mozzarella for added melt and flavor.
• Make it ahead – refrigerate unbaked up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with:

• Side salad with vinaigrette – balances the richness
• Steamed green beans or broccoli
• Dinner rolls or crescent rolls
• Fruit salad or applesauce – for a nostalgic touch
• Pickles or sweet relish – retro-style sides that cut the creaminess

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❄️ Storage & Freezing

To store: Refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container for up to 4 days.

To freeze: Assemble the casserole (without topping), cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Add topping before baking.

To reheat: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, or microwave single portions.

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🔁 Variations to Try

• Deluxe Tuna Bake: Add sautéed mushrooms, sour cream, and fresh herbs.
• Tuna Mac & Cheese Casserole: Use elbow macaroni and more cheese.
• Healthy Twist: Use Greek yogurt, whole wheat pasta, and add spinach.
• No-Soup Version: Make a homemade béchamel instead of canned soup.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based tuna, dairy-free cheese, and vegan cream soups.

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📊 Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving – 8 servings)

• Calories: ~410
• Protein: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

(Nutrition may vary based on cheese, toppings, and mix-ins.)

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📝 Final Thoughts

This Old Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole isn’t just dinner — it’s a memory. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day, the centerpiece of potlucks, and a nostalgic comfort that spans generations.

Simple ingredients, familiar flavors, and that irresistible crunch on top — what more could you ask for?

Make it your own, freeze a batch for later, or keep it old-school and serve with peas and pickles. However you serve it, you’ll be glad you did.

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