Tuna Casserole

Tuna Casserole

Tuna casserole is a classic comfort food that has stood the test of time. This hearty, creamy dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you’re craving something simple yet satisfying.

Made with canned tuna, pasta, and a creamy sauce, it’s a budget-friendly meal that’s packed with protein and flavors everyone loves.

Whether you make it from scratch or add a few shortcuts, tuna casserole is a quick and easy dish that is always sure to please. You can even customize it with your favorite vegetables or toppings for a personal touch.

Ingredients:

2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water or oil, drained and flaked

8 oz egg noodles or any pasta of your choice

1 1/2 cups frozen peas (or mixed vegetables, optional)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or any creamy soup of choice)

1/2 cup milk

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 tbsp butter

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make:

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling the pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Prepare the Casserole Mixture: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the garlic powder and dried thyme (if using), and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and milk into the skillet with the onions. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and heated through. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the sauce is ready, stir in the drained tuna, frozen peas (or any other vegetables you prefer), and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything until well combined.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the tuna mixture. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the tuna and pasta mixture into the prepared dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.

Add the Breadcrumb Topping: Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a crispy, golden topping once baked. For extra flavor, you can mix a tablespoon of melted butter with the breadcrumbs before sprinkling them on top.

Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. If you want an even crispier top, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes.

Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Chef’s Note:

Tuna casserole is highly versatile, and you can customize it according to your preferences. If you want to add more vegetables, try incorporating mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots into the sauce. For an extra creamy texture, you can substitute the milk with heavy cream or use a combination of both. You can also use other cheeses, such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack, to change up the flavor.

If you prefer a healthier version, consider using whole wheat pasta or adding extra veggies. You can also replace the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade creamy sauce made from scratch, though the canned version saves time and adds convenience.

Nutrition Information (per serving, 6 servings total):

Calories: 375

Protein: 28g

Carbohydrates: 37g

Fat: 16g

Saturated Fat: 8g

Cholesterol: 60mg

Sodium: 670mg

Fiber: 3g

Sugars: 5g

Tuna casserole is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s full of flavor and nutrition. It provides a good amount of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making it a well-rounded dish. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight family dinner or preparing a dish to bring to a gathering, this tuna casserole will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.