Grandmas Huginadish the Ultimate Creamy Tuna Casserole

Best Tuna Casserole Grandmas Creamy Noodle Recipe

By SandraSeptember 11, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy a bit of comfort food? Honestly, who doesn't? This Best Tuna Casserole recipe is about to become your new go-to dish.

It is creamy, dreamy, and surprisingly easy to make. You know?

Brief Overview

The humble tuna noodle casserole has been a staple on dinner tables for generations. This classic tuna casserole is easy, clocking in at around 50 minutes from start to finish, and yields 6 generous servings.

It's proper hearty grub!

Main Benefits

This Homemade Tuna Casserole isn't just delicious; it's packed with protein. It is also perfect for a chilly evening or a potluck with friends.

What makes this creamy tuna casserole recipe special? A crispy potato chip topping!

Let’s Talk Tuna Casserole !

So, you want to make the Best Tuna Casserole ever? I get it. When I first started cooking, I was terrified of anything involving a creamy sauce.

Turns out, it's easier than making a cuppa! This easy tuna casserole recipe will transform even the most sceptical eater into a Noodle Casserole lover.

This isn't just any tuna casserole recipe . It’s my Tuna Casserole with Potato Chips recipe. I've tweaked it over the years, adding a secret ingredient here and there.

Think of it as a hug in a dish.

Grandma's Secret to the Best Tuna Casserole

My grandma used to make this Tuna Noodle Casserole every Sunday. The aroma filled the house. She'd always sneak a bit of sherry into the sauce.

Chef's kiss! Honestly, that little splash of sherry is game changing. It elevates the whole dish!

This Tuna Casserole recipe makes everything so delicious. She always used Kettle Chips on top the extra crunch is divine.

It is also great for using up bits and bobs you have lying around in the fridge.

Why This Tuna Casserole is a Winner

There are a million tuna casserole recipes out there. But this one? It’s different. We're talking about a creamy tuna casserole recipe that is a real crowd pleaser.

Plus, you get to smash up some potato chips. Bonus points!

This best tuna casserole is not only a breeze to whip up, but it also brings that cozy, nostalgic feel.

This Noodle Casserole will be a sure fire hit at any gathering. Get ready for the compliments! Now let's dive into those ingredients, shall we?

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Cooking!

So, you wanna make the Best Tuna Casserole ? Ace! First, let’s gather our bits and bobs. No need to stress, we’ll keep it simple.

Honestly, this classic tuna casserole recipe is dead easy.

Main Ingredients: All You Need

Here’s the shopping list to create a yummy Tuna Noodle Casserole .

Egg Noodles: 1 pound (450g) . Get the good quality ones, they make all the difference, trust me!.
Butter: 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted, for that rich sauce.
Flour: 4 tablespoons (30g) all-purpose.
Milk: 3 cups (720ml) whole milk. Makes it extra creamy.
Tuna: 2 (5 ounce/142g) cans in water, drained. Flaky is key.
Frozen Peas: 1 cup (150g) , thawed.
Frozen Carrots: 1 cup (150g) , thawed.
Celery: ½ cup (50g) , chopped.
Onion: ½ cup (50g) , chopped.
Parsley: ¼ cup (15g) , chopped fresh.
Potato Chips: 1 ½ cups (100g) , crushed. Kettle Chips are the winner!
Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (15ml)
Salt: 1 teaspoon (5g)
Melted butter: 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted

Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up!

Don’t be shy with the seasonings! A bit of thyme ( ½ teaspoon (2.5g) dried) adds warmth. A dash of sherry ( 2 tablespoons (30ml) dry) elevates the flavour.

Salt ( ½ teaspoon (2.5g) ) and pepper ( ¼ teaspoon (1.25g) ) are your trusty mates. No sherry? A splash of lemon juice will do in a pinch.

For this Creamy Tuna Casserole Recipe , it is a win!

Equipment Needed: Keep It Basic

You don't need fancy gear for the Best Tuna Casserole . You'll need:

A big pot for the noodles.
A colander to drain those beauties.
A saucepan for the sauce.
A 9x13 inch baking dish. Perfect size for baking easy tuna casserole .

If you don’t have a baking dish, a deep oven safe pan will work. See? Easy peasy! And here's a little tip: I used to make this in my nan's old casserole dish; it always tasted better!

So, there you have it. Now you're ready to whip up this Homemade Tuna Casserole like a pro! Let's get cooking!

Okay, let's get this show on the road! As any good chef knows, a good tuna casserole is a comfort food classic think "Coronation Street" after a long day, or a Sunday roast without the roast! You know? I'm talking about a Classic Tuna Casserole that warms you from the inside out.

Cooking Up Comfort: My Take on Tuna Casserole

Honestly, sometimes you just need something easy and comforting. And for me, that's Tuna Casserole or more particularly, the Best Tuna Casserole .

This isn't some fancy, schmancy dish. It's the kind of meal your grandma would make on a rainy day, except maybe with a few cheeky upgrades.

My version is a hug in a bowl, loaded with creamy goodness, tender noodles, and a satisfying crunch on top.

It’s basically the king of Noodle Casserole recipes.

Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row

First things first: mise en place, darling! This means getting all your ingredients prepped and ready to go. It saves so much time in the long run.

Chop your celery and onions. Thaw those frozen peas and carrots. Drain your tuna really well . Honestly, a watery casserole is the worst.

Also, make sure your oven is preheated to 350° F ( 175° C) !

For some time saving magic, I like to chop my veggies the night before. Also, make sure you have the correct 9x13 inch baking dish.

You could also use a store-bought soup, like mushroom soup for a Quick Tuna Casserole .

step-by-step: From Mess to Masterpiece

Cook your noodles: Cook 1 pound (450g) of egg noodles until al dente. Nobody likes mushy noodles!
Sauté your veggies: In a skillet, melt 4 tablespoons (57g) butter. Sauté chopped celery and onion until softened.
Make the creamy sauce: Melt 4 tablespoons (57g) of butter in a saucepan. Whisk in 4 tablespoons (30g) of flour. Gradually whisk in 3 cups (720ml) of milk. Cook until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. This is how you make a creamy Tuna Casserole Recipe .
Combine everything: Mix cooked noodles, tuna, veggies, and sauce in a large bowl.
Top it off: Crush 1 ½ cups (100g) potato chips and toss with 2 tablespoons (28g) melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole. I love using Kettle Chips. Adds a nice kick!
Bake it: Bake for 25- 30 minutes , or until golden brown and bubbly.
Let it rest: Let it stand for 5- 10 minutes before serving. This gives the sauce time to thicken up.

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Casserole Game

Want to take your Homemade Tuna Casserole to the next level? Honestly, a little dry sherry in the sauce makes a world of difference.

Also, don't be afraid to add some shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture for extra cheesy goodness. I am telling you, you won't regret making this Creamy Tuna Casserole Recipe .

The biggest mistake people make is overcooking the noodles or not draining the tuna well enough. Avoid both! Finally, you can totally make this ahead of time.

Just assemble it and keep it in the fridge until you're ready to bake. Enjoy your Tuna Casserole with Potato Chips !

Recipe Notes: The Nitty Gritty for Best Tuna Casserole Success

Right then, before you dive into making this Creamy Tuna Casserole Recipe , let's chat about a few things that'll help you nail it.

Honestly, even the Best Tuna Casserole can benefit from a little insider knowledge, yeah? I remember one time I didn't drain the tuna well enough.

Oh my gosh, disaster! So, learn from my mistakes, darling.

Serving Suggestions: Making it Look & Taste Fab!

Presentation matters, doesn't it? Don't just chuck it on a plate! A sprig of parsley adds a touch of class to this Homemade Tuna Casserole .

For sides, a simple green salad cuts through the richness beautifully. Or how about some steamed broccoli? And a wedge of crusty bread? Perfect for mopping up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

Maybe, you should think about a Tuna Casserole with Potato Chips .

Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This Easy Tuna Casserole keeps well. Pop it in the fridge in an airtight container. It'll be good for 3-4 days .

To reheat, either microwave individual portions or warm it up in the oven at 175° C ( 350° F) until heated through.

Freezing isn't really recommended, as the sauce can get a bit weird when defrosted, you know?

Variations: Making it Your Own

Want to mix things up? Go wild! For a cheesy version, stir in a cup of shredded cheddar. Honestly, who doesn't love cheese? If you're feeling fancy, try a Mediterranean twist with olives and feta.

Or, if you are gluten-free then sub the egg noodles for gluten-free alternatives and use gluten-free flour for the white sauce.

A quick substitution for the potato chips is panko breadcrumbs.

Nutrition Basics: Fueling Your Body

Okay, so a Tuna Noodle Casserole isn't exactly health food, but it's not all bad! Each serving has a good hit of protein from the tuna.

Plus, you get some vitamins from the peas and carrots. Roughly, you're looking at about 450 calories per serving. Just remember, portion control is key, yeah? It's important to note that nutritional information is an estimate only and will vary based on specific ingredients used.

So there you have it all the extra bits and bobs to make the Classic Tuna Casserole truly your own.

You know, this whole recipe is just a blank canvas for your creativity! Give this Casserole Recipe a go, and have fun with it!.

Honestly, you got this! Now, go get that Noodle Casserole cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best way to prevent my tuna casserole from being watery?

Nobody wants a soggy bottom! The key is to drain the tuna really well. Also, make sure your cooked noodles are drained thoroughly before mixing them with the sauce. Using thawed frozen vegetables instead of canned also helps, as canned veggies release extra moisture during baking.

Can I use different types of noodles in this Best Tuna Casserole recipe?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can definitely experiment. Something like penne or rotini would work well. Just be sure to cook them al dente; nobody likes mushy pasta.

Plus, different noodles give a slightly different vibe to the dish, like switching from "EastEnders" to "Downton Abbey" same country, different class!

What are some good substitutions for the potato chip topping?

If you're all out of potato chips, don't fret! Crushed Ritz crackers or even panko breadcrumbs tossed with melted butter make a great crunchy alternative. For a healthier option, try using crushed whole wheat crackers or even a sprinkle of toasted slivered almonds.

A good rule of thumb is that if it's crunchy and slightly salty, it’ll probably work!

How long can I store leftover Best Tuna Casserole?

Leftover tuna casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until heated through. Keep in mind that the topping may lose some of its crispiness upon reheating. For best results, store leftovers shortly after the original bake.

Can I freeze tuna casserole?

Yes, you can freeze tuna casserole, but it's best to do so before baking. Assemble the casserole in a freezer safe dish, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking according to the recipe instructions.

Note that the texture of the sauce may change slightly after freezing, but it will still be delicious.

I'm trying to be healthier are there any lighter options for this Best Tuna Casserole?

Definitely! You can use low-fat milk or even unsweetened almond milk in the sauce, and swap out some of the butter for olive oil. Using tuna packed in water instead of oil will cut down on fat, and loading up on extra veggies like broccoli or spinach is a great way to boost the nutritional value.

The ultimate goal is to make a dish that is both comforting and nutritious. You can also replace the chips with bread crumbs with no or low sodium content.