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–+ servings
Tuna Noodle Casserole
Tuna noodle casserole became a staple in mid-20th-century American kitchens, valued for its affordability, convenience, and comforting flavors. Often built around pantry staples like canned tuna, condensed soup, and egg noodles, it reflects an era when home cooks relied on simple ingredients to create hearty meals. This version includes crunchy peanuts or cashews and peas for texture and flavor contrast, along with chow mein noodles for a crisp topping. The result is a creamy, savory casserole with a satisfying mix of soft and crunchy elements. It’s a nostalgic, practical dish that continues to appeal for weeknight dinners and potlucks alike.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 oz Chinese noodles (chow mein noodles, reserve ½ cup)
  • 1 cup mushroom soup (condensed)
  • ¾ cup water
  • 1 can tuna (drained)
  • 1 cup peanuts ( or cashews)
  • 1 cup celery (chopped )
  • ½ cup peas
  • soy sauce (for serving)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat Oven

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prepare Base Mixture

  • In a large bowl, combine mushroom soup and water.
  • Stir until smooth.

Step 3: Add Main Ingredients

  • Add drained tuna, peanuts or cashews, chopped celery, and peas.
  • Mix well to combine.

Step 4: Add Noodles

  • Fold in most of the chow mein noodles, reserving ½ cup for topping.

Step 5: Assemble Casserole

  • Pour mixture into a greased casserole dish.

Step 6: Bake Initial Stage

  • Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

Step 7: Add Topping

  • Sprinkle reserved noodles evenly over the top.

Step 8: Final Bake

  • Bake an additional 5 minutes until topping is crisp.

Step 9: Serve

  • Serve warm with soy sauce on the side.

Tips

  • Substitute cream of chicken or celery soup for variation
  • Add shredded cheese for extra richness
  • Use egg noodles instead of chow mein noodles
  • Add sautéed onions or garlic for deeper flavor
  • Swap tuna for cooked chicken
  • Use water chestnuts for added crunch
  • Make it spicy with chili flakes or hot sauce
  • Top with breadcrumbs instead of noodles
  • Use low-sodium soup for a healthier option

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 22gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 780mgPotassium: 420mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 850IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2.5mg
Keyword casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, pantry staples, retro recipes, tuna, vintage
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