Tuna macaroni casserole is a tasty meal that has elbow macaroni, tasty tuna filling, and crunchy potato chips on top. It's a quick and easy meal that takes just 35 minutes to make.

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A fork taking a bite of tuna macaroni casserole.

Tuna macaroni casserole is a tasty meal that has elbow macaroni, tuna filling, and crunchy potato chips on top. It's a quick and easy meal that takes just 35 minutes to make.

This Tuna Macaroni Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a family dinner. With elbow macaroni, a creamy tuna filling, and a crunchy potato chip topping, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite!

This easy casserole is perfect for busy weeknight dinners. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a delicious, quick meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients for tuna macaroni casserole in dishes.

Ingredient notes and substitutions

Tuna: Substitute with salmon or canned chicken for a different flavor.
Cream of mushroom soup: Use cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce instead.
Cheddar cheese: Swap for another cheese like Monterey Jack or Colby.
Chips: I used Lay's original potato chips, but you could use any type of potato chip that you like.

How to make tuna noodle casserole

Here you'll find step-by-step photos showing how to make this recipe. The full recipe, including ingredients, is given below.

Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Milk pouring into a dish with tuna mayo and veggies.

Step 3: In a large bowl, mix together tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, peas, ½ cup of the cheddar cheese, onion, celery, mayonnaise, garlic powder, dill, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Add the cooked macaroni to the tuna mixture and stir until well combined.

Unbaked tuna noodle mixture in a casserole dish.

Step 5: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.

Shredded cheese on top of tuna noodle casserole mixture.

Step 6: Top with ½ cup of cheddar cheese.

Crushed potato chips on top of unbaked tuna noodle casserole mixture.

Step 7: Sprinkle with crushed potato chips.

Step 8: Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.

Step 9: Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Step 10: Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

A plate of tuna macaroni casserole next to the baking dish.

Tips

Make-ahead: You can assemble the casserole, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Freezing: Cool the casserole completely, then wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Freeze the casserole without the chips on top to prevent them from getting soggy.

A fork lifting up a piece of tuna noodle casserole.

Serving suggestions

Tuna macaroni casserole goes well with a fresh green salad or fresh cut veggies on the side. Light and fresh sides like fruit salad also go well with it.

You could also serve this casserole with steamed vegetables or garlic bread.

A plate of tuna macaroni casserole next to salt and pepper shakers.

Storage

Store any leftover tuna macaroni casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 4 days when properly stored in the fridge. However, it is best eaten within the first 1-2 days.

To Reheat: Place the casserole in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You could also microwave on high for about 1-2 minutes until hot.

More easy pasta dinner recipes!

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