There's something about tuna casserole that feels like home. Maybe it's the creamy goodness or the way it brings back childhood memories of family dinners. I remember my mom whipping up this dish on busy weeknights. It was quick, satisfying, and always made the house smell amazing.
Today, I'm diving deep into the world of tuna casserole. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is bound to impress. Let’s jump right in!
Tuna casserole is a baked dish that features tuna as the main protein, combined with pasta, vegetables, and a creamy sauce. It's the kind of dish that’s both easy to make and endlessly customizable. Picture tender noodles enveloped in a rich, savory sauce, topped with a crispy golden layer. It’s comfort food at its best—simple, hearty, and filling.
While the traditional version often calls for canned soup, my recipe takes a fun twist. I use fresh ingredients and a few pantry staples to elevate this classic without complicating it. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close!
Thinking about giving this a try? Here’s why you’ll absolutely love it:
Simplicity: Preparing tuna casserole doesn’t require any culinary wizardry. You'll have a delicious meal ready in about an hour.
Flavorful: The marriage of flavors in this dish is a match made in heaven. You’ve got the savory tuna, the creamy sauce, and the crunch from the topping.
Versatile: Want to swap out ingredients? Go for it! Love broccoli? Add it. Prefer a spicier version? Toss in some jalapeños!
Kid-Friendly: This dish has a way of turning picky eaters into adventurous diners. It’s rich, creamy, and just plain satisfying.
Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week.
Ready to learn how to make this mouthwatering creation? Let’s get into it!
First off, gather up these ingredients:
3 cups dry egg noodles (approximately 6 ounces)
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
2 celery stalks, finely diced
2/3 cup frozen peas, thawed
1 (5-ounce) can albacore tuna, drained
1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
1/3 cup whole milk
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added depth)
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, to add a mild smokiness)
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to create your own delicious tuna casserole.
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling like a cauldron, add the egg noodles. Cook according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. This gives the noodles the perfect chew. Once done, drain them and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt one tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and celery. Sauté until they are soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, drained tuna, thawed peas, the cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, chopped parsley, and Dijon mustard. Stir everything together until it's fully integrated.
Now, fold the cooked noodles into the mixture. Gently stir until the noodles are thoroughly coated with the tuna and sauce. Make sure the tuna is broken up into smaller pieces for even distribution.
In a separate bowl, mix the panko bread crumbs, chopped parsley, shredded cheddar cheese, melted butter, and smoked paprika. This delicious topping will add that satisfying crunch everyone loves.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the tuna mixture into a greased casserole dish. Evenly spread the breadcrumb mixture over the top. Bake for around 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Once it's done, let it sit for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to mingle. Dish it out, and watch everyone’s eyes light up!
Here are some handy tips to make your casserole even more delightful:
Make it Creamier: For an ultra-creamy texture, substitute half of the milk with sour cream.
Add More Veggies: Throw in some chopped bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
Increase Flavor: A splash of Worcestershire sauce can give the dish a deeper flavor profile.
Cheesy Goodness: Mix in some mozzarella for an extra cheesy topping.
Crispy Top: Broil for the last couple of minutes for an extra crunchy crust. Just keep an eye on it—no one likes burnt casserole!
A standard serving of tuna casserole typically provides an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients, but it can vary based on ingredients. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving (for a 1-cup serving):
Calories: Approximately 350
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 20g
These values can shift based on ingredient choices. Opting for whole grain noodles or adding more veggies can enhance the nutritional profile.
Absolutely! Tuna casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness.
If you want to extend its life, tuna casserole can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping it up. When you’re ready to dig in, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake until heated through.
Pair your tuna casserole with something delicious on the side. Here are a few mouthwatering options:
Garlic Bread: Who doesn’t love buttery, crunchy bread? Perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce!
Steamed Broccoli: A fresh, vibrant green veggie that complements the dish well.
Simple Salad: A crisp green salad can add freshness and lighten up the meal.
Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw can be a delightful contrast to the casserole's richness.
Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add a delightful flavor balance.
Let’s shake things up! Here are five variations for your tuna casserole:
Italian Twist: Add Italian seasoning and diced tomatoes, then sprinkle with mozzarella for an Italian flair.
Spicy Tuna Casserole: Incorporate diced jalapeños and a splash of hot sauce to kick it up a notch.
Seafood Blend: Mix tuna with shrimp or crab for a seafood extravaganza. The combination of flavors is heavenly!
Mexican Style: Use green chilies, black beans, corn, and top it with crushed tortilla chips for a fiesta in a dish.
Healthy Mushroom Quinoa Bake: Replace pasta with quinoa, and toss in sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a healthier alternative.
Tuna casserole is more than a quick meal; it’s a history-rich dish that adapts to your tastes and needs. It combines convenience with comfort in a way few others do. Whether you stick to the classic version or explore new variations, you’ll find a little piece of home in every bite.
So, roll up your sleeves and get ready for a delightful cooking experience. I promise, your family will love it just as mine did. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and happy cooking!
There's something about tuna casserole that feels like home. Maybe it's the creamy goodness or the way it brings back childhood memories of family dinners. I remember my mom whipping up this dish on busy weeknights. It was quick, satisfying, and always made the house smell amazing.
Servings 6
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
I’m Kelly Blackford, a registered dietitian and the creator of Easy Meals to Cook. My passion is helping busy individuals and families create simple, nutritious meals without the stress of complicated techniques. Through my blog, I share easy, budget-friendly recipes designed to make home cooking accessible and enjoyable for everyone.