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Crispy Tuna Casserole with Potato Chips

crispy tuna casserole with potato chips - featured image

A nostalgic and comforting casserole combining creamy tuna and cheddar sauce with a crispy potato chip topping, perfect for family dinners and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) egg noodles, cooked al dente
  • Two 5-ounce (140 grams) cans canned tuna, drained
  • 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
  • 1 ½ cups (150 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (150 grams) frozen peas, thawed
  • ½ small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
  • ½ cup (120 ml) milk, whole or 2%
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 cups (about 60 grams) crushed potato chips (classic salted or kettle-cooked)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon (14 grams) melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the egg noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water for about 7 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a small pan over medium heat, melt a teaspoon of butter or oil. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, drained tuna, sautéed onion and garlic, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, thawed peas, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir gently to mix. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish and spread evenly.
  6. Place the potato chips in a small bowl and crush lightly, leaving some chunks for texture. Drizzle melted butter over the chips and toss to coat.
  7. Sprinkle the crushed potato chips evenly over the casserole.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly around the edges and the potato chips are golden brown and crisp. If chips brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
  9. Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.

Notes

Use trusted brands of potato chips like Lay’s or Kettle Brand for best topping texture. Avoid stirring the chips into the casserole to keep them crispy. Let the casserole rest before serving for easier slicing and serving. For gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles and chips. Variations include swapping peas for corn or green beans, or using different cheeses like pepper jack or smoked gouda.

Nutrition

Keywords: tuna casserole, potato chips, comfort food, easy casserole, family dinner, creamy tuna, crispy topping