- LS
It is a Keeper
March 17, 2026
Itisakeeper.com
Old Fashioned Tuna Casserole is a warm memory, like a hug from an old friend. It’s a classic recipe that takes you back to a kinder and simpler time. This tuna casserole is creamy and cheesy making it so satisfying. This casserole is an easy addition to your meal rotation.
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
1/6
Instructions
1
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spray a 13×9 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2
Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir in the onion, celery, and garlic, and cook 5 minutes or until tender.
3
Melt 4 tablespoons butter in a medium saucepan, and whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk and continue cooking 5 minutes, until sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
4
Add cheddar cheese. If sauce is too thick, slowly stir in reserved pasta water until sauce is desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
5
Stir in tuna, peas, onion mixture and cooked noodles. Transfer to the baking dish.
6
Melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter and mix with bread crumbs, and sprinkle over the casserole.
7
Bake 25 minutes in the preheated oven, or until bubbly and lightly browned.
My Calorie Intake
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Tips & Tricks (5)
- Drain Tuna Thoroughly 💧Press canned tuna between paper towels to remove excess moisture, preventing a watery casserole and ensuring a creamier, more concentrated flavor in every bite.
- Make a Proper Béchamel Base 🧈Create a roux by cooking butter and flour together for 1-2 minutes before adding milk to prevent lumps and achieve a silky, luxurious sauce that coats the noodles perfectly.
- Sauté Aromatics First 🧅Fully caramelize your diced onion, celery, and minced garlic in butter before building the sauce to develop deep, savory flavors that elevate the entire dish.
- Toast Panko Topping Separately 🍞Toss panko with melted butter and broil on a separate pan for 2-3 minutes before topping the casserole, ensuring a golden, crispy crust rather than a soggy, greasy layer.
- Undercook Pasta Slightly 🍝Cook egg noodles 1-2 minutes under package directions since they'll continue cooking in the oven, preventing mushy, overcooked pasta in your final casserole.
Recipe Facts
Diet at a Glance
Low Sugar
My Calorie Intake
Smart Nutrition 
Nutrition Per Serving
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Glycemic Analysis
Glycemic Index
Glycemic Load
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