Tuna Casserole

Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. Tuna casserole is the epitome of comfort food, bringing together tender pasta, flaky tuna, and a creamy sauce topped with golden breadcrumbs. This dish not only warms the soul but also makes for an easy weeknight meal. Packed with protein and flavor, it’s a family favorite that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s both simple and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 cups egg noodles
• 1 can (15 oz) tuna, drained
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4-6 people, with a preparation time of about 15 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes.

Nutritional Value

This dish contains approximately 350 calories per serving (1/6 of the casserole). It includes 20g of protein, 15g of fat, and 35g of carbohydrates. This is for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with milk until smooth.
4. Add the drained tuna, frozen peas, chopped onion, and cooked noodles to the soup mixture.
5. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
7. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
8. Drizzle olive oil over the breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden and bubbling.
10. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or use brown rice for a healthier option. Instead of cream of mushroom soup, try cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce for a different flavor.

Serving and Pairings

This tuna casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh side 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. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This casserole can also be frozen; just ensure it’s well-covered to prevent freezer burn.

Cooking Mistakes

• Overcooking the noodles can lead to a mushy texture.
• Not draining the tuna properly may make the dish watery.
• Using low-quality cheese can affect the flavor.
• Skipping the breadcrumbs will reduce the dish’s texture.
• Forgetting to season can result in bland flavors.

Helpful Tips

• Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Experiment with different cheeses for varied taste.
• Add spices like garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
• Make it ahead of time and bake just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tuna. Just cook it first and flake it before adding it to the casserole mixture.

Is tuna casserole healthy?

Tuna casserole can be part of a healthy diet when made with whole ingredients. You can adjust the recipe to include more vegetables and whole-grain pasta.

How do I make it less creamy?

To reduce creaminess, use less cream of mushroom soup or replace it with a homemade sauce that includes more broth than cream.

Can I make tuna casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it.

What can I add to make it more nutritious?

Consider adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or carrots. This will increase fiber and nutrient content.

Conclusion

Tuna casserole is a classic dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. Its versatility allows for variations to suit any taste, making it a perfect choice for family meals. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a hearty dish that everyone will love. Enjoy this easy recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Tuna Casserole

A comforting and savory dish combining tender pasta, flaky tuna, and creamy sauce topped with crunchy breadcrumbs, 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 -6 servings

Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

• 2 cups egg noodles
• 1 can 15 oz tuna, drained
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
• In a large bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with milk until smooth.
• Add the drained tuna, frozen peas, chopped onion, and cooked noodles to the soup mixture.
• Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and season with salt and pepper.
• Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
• Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
• Drizzle olive oil over the breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden and bubbling.
• Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 2g