Tuna Casserole

Tuna casserole is the ultimate comfort food, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures that evoke nostalgia. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also budget-friendly, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners. With its creamy sauce, tender pasta, and nutritious tuna, this casserole is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will warm your heart and fill your belly!

Ingredients

• 2 cups egg noodles
• 1 can (15 oz) tuna, drained
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/4 of the casserole) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 15g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions, then drain.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the drained tuna and frozen peas to the mixture.
5. Stir in the cooked noodles and half of the cheddar cheese.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs if using.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
10. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Alternative Ingredients

You can easily customize your tuna casserole by using different pasta shapes or substituting the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce. Additionally, fresh vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can be added for extra nutrition.

Serving and Pairings

Tuna casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish also freezes well—just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.

Cooking Mistakes

• Overcooking the noodles can make them mushy.
• Forgetting to drain the tuna can lead to a watery casserole.
• Not seasoning the mixture properly can result in bland flavors.
• Using low-fat soup may affect the creaminess.
• Skipping the breadcrumbs can omit a nice crunchy topping.

Helpful Tips

• Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.
• Adding a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish.
• Mixing in cooked vegetables enhances nutrition and flavor.
• Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to firm up.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Yes, fresh tuna can be used, but it should be cooked and flaked before adding to the casserole. This will enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.

Is tuna casserole healthy?

Tuna casserole can be a healthy option when made with whole ingredients. It’s packed with protein and can include vegetables for added nutrients.

Can I make tuna casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

What can I serve with tuna casserole?

Tuna casserole pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a more filling meal.

Can I freeze tuna casserole?

Yes, you can freeze tuna casserole. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

Tuna casserole is a timeless dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. Its easy preparation and delicious flavors make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its creamy texture and savory taste, this casserole will surely become a favorite in your household.

Tuna Casserole

A comforting and delicious dish featuring tender pasta, creamy sauce, and savory tuna, perfect for family dinners.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: tuna casserole, comfort food, easy recipes, family meals

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

• 2 cups egg noodles
• 1 can 15 oz tuna, drained
• 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs optional

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions, then drain.
• In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Add the drained tuna and frozen peas to the mixture.
• Stir in the cooked noodles and half of the cheddar cheese.
• Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
• Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs if using.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
• Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 2g