Indulge in the heartwarming goodness of this tuna casserole recipe, where creamy goodness meets tender pasta and savory tuna in a delightful embrace. Picture a bubbling dish topped with golden, crispy breadcrumbs, inviting you to dig in. With every spoonful, you’ll savor the rich flavors of melted cheese, vibrant peas, and a hint of zesty lemon, all harmonizing beautifully. This comforting classic is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy family dinners or a quick weeknight treat. Get ready to fall in love with this easy, satisfying dish!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
tuna casserole recipe
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot For boiling pasta.
- 1 Large mixing bowl For mixing sauce and ingredients.
- 1 baking dish For baking the casserole.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 cans Tuna Drained.
- 1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup Opt for low-sodium if desired.
Base
- 1 cup Milk Can substitute with almond or oat milk.
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Shredded, sharp for more intensity.
- 1 cup Frozen Peas No need to thaw.
Flavorings
- 1 medium Onion Sauté for a sweeter taste.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used for a stronger flavor.
Toppings
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs Mix with melted butter for extra richness.
- to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning.
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly bubbly.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your favorite pasta (like egg noodles or macaroni) and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup of milk, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Open 2 cans of tuna (drained) and gently fold them into the sauce mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to toss in some frozen peas for a pop of color!
- In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and the tuna sauce. Mix well until every noodle is coated in that creamy goodness.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar works great!) on top of the casserole. For an extra crunch, add some crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of your homemade tuna casserole!
Why You’ll Love This Tuna Casserole Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comforting flavors that remind you of home-cooked meals.
- Versatile ingredients that you can customize to your taste.
- Budget-friendly, making it a great option for families.
- Leftovers taste even better, so you can enjoy it again!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 30 minutes |
| Total Time: | 45 minutes |
| Dietary: | Nut-Free |
| Serves: | 4-6 |
| Best Served: | Warm |
Ingredients for Tuna Casserole Recipe
- Tuna – a protein-packed star of the dish, use canned or fresh.
- Pasta – provides a hearty base; choose your favorite shape.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup – adds creaminess and flavor; opt for a low-sodium version if desired.
- Milk – helps to create a smooth sauce; can substitute with almond or oat milk.
- Cheddar Cheese – brings a rich, cheesy flavor; use sharp for more intensity.
- Frozen Peas – adds color and sweetness; no need to thaw before using.
- Onion – enhances flavor; sauté for a sweeter taste.
- Garlic Powder – adds depth; fresh garlic can be used for a stronger flavor.
- Breadcrumbs – for a crunchy topping; mix with a bit of melted butter for extra richness.
- Salt and Pepper – essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Tuna Casserole Recipe
Get ready to whip up a delicious tuna casserole that will warm your heart and fill your belly!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly bubbly.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your favorite pasta (like egg noodles or macaroni) and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup of milk, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Mix in the Tuna
Open 2 cans of tuna (drained) and gently fold them into the sauce mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to toss in some frozen peas for a pop of color!
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and the tuna sauce. Mix well until every noodle is coated in that creamy goodness.
Step 6: Add Toppings
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar works great!) on top of the casserole. For an extra crunch, add some crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of your homemade tuna casserole!
Pro Tips for Making the Tuna Casserole Recipe
• Use canned tuna packed in water for a lighter dish.
• Add a splash of lemon juice for a fresh zing.
• Incorporate frozen peas for a pop of color and sweetness.
• Swap out cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version for a healthier twist.
• Top with crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs for an extra crunch.
How to Serve Tuna Casserole Recipe
- Top with crispy fried onions for extra crunch.
- Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans.
- Pair with a fresh garden salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette.
- Offer warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- Sprinkle fresh parsley or dill on top for a pop of color.
- For a twist, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on each serving.
- Enjoy with a side of tangy pickles or olives for a flavor boost.
- For a lighter option, serve in lettuce cups instead of a bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your tuna casserole fresh:
- Allow it to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
For long-term storage:
- Cool the casserole completely before freezing.
- Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating
To enjoy your casserole again:
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- Add a splash of milk for creaminess if needed.
FAQs
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup on hand, you can easily make a substitute by mixing equal parts of sour cream and milk with some sautéed mushrooms. This will give you a creamy texture and a delicious flavor without using canned soup.
Can I make tuna casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What type of pasta works best for tuna casserole?
Most types of pasta work well in a tuna casserole, but egg noodles or macaroni are popular choices. They hold the sauce nicely and provide a comforting texture that pairs perfectly with the tuna and other ingredients.
Can I add vegetables to my tuna casserole?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your casserole. Just make sure to cook them slightly before mixing them in, so they blend well with the other ingredients.
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