Tuna Casserole Recipe – Gourmet And Food

One of my fondest childhood memories revolves around my mom’s incredible tuna casserole. 

It was our family's go-to comfort dish, especially during those chilly nights when all we wanted was something warm and satisfying. Now, you may be wondering, what goes well with this classic dish? 

The answer is simple: buttered garlic bread, a crisp green salad with vinaigrette, or even some steamed veggies on the side. Those options perfectly balance the richness of the casserole.

As I grew up, I realized that this casserole isn’t just a meal; it's a hug in a bowl, reminding us of the warm kitchen filled with laughter and nostalgia. Let’s dive into why this dish remains unbeatable, and I’ll guide you through my tried-and-true tuna casserole recipe.

What is Tuna Casserole?

Tuna casserole is a hearty dish that combines tuna, noodles, and a creamy sauce, often topped with a crunchy breadcrumb crust. 

People have loved this casserole for decades because it brings convenience and comfort together in one pan. Its simplicity allows for customization while delivering a taste that resonates with many.

You Might Also Like These Recipes!

• Spicy Quinoa and Black Beans Recipe
• Lightened Up Eggplant Parmesan Stacks
• Beet Salad

The Ingredients

This recipe is straightforward, relying on ingredients that are often staples in our kitchens. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 tablespoon unsalted butter
3 cups dry egg noodles (about 6 ounces)
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
⅔ cup frozen green peas, thawed
2 celery stalks, diced
1 (5-ounce) can tuna, well drained
⅓ cup whole milk
1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Crumb Topping:
1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley

How to Make Tuna Casserole Recipe

Before diving into the step-by-step directions, let me tell you this: the beauty of a tuna casserole lies not just in its taste, but also in how easy it is to prepare. This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Step 1: Boil the Noodles

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the dry egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. You want them to have just a bit of bite since they'll continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

While the noodles are cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and diced celery. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 4-5 minutes. The aroma of onion and celery sizzling in butter is fantastic, trust me!

Step 3: Combine the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, sautéed onion and celery, cream of mushroom soup, thawed peas, whole milk, chopped parsley, black pepper, sharp cheddar cheese, and garlic powder. Mix everything together until well combined. This is where the magic starts to happen.

Step 4: Mix in the Noodles

Now that your filling is ready, add the cooked noodles to the mixture. Stir gently to ensure the noodles are evenly coated with that creamy goodness.

Step 5: Prepare the Crumb Topping

In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter with panko breadcrumbs and shredded cheddar cheese. The panko adds a special crunch that I just adore!

Step 6: Assemble

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the tuna noodle mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top it off with the buttery breadcrumb mixture, spreading it evenly across the top.

Step 7: Bake

Pop your assembled casserole into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly. The smell wafting through your kitchen at this moment will make your mouth water.

Notes

Here are some of my essential tips to keep your casserole game strong:

Don’t Overcook the Noodles: They’ll soak up some moisture when baking, so a bit of firmness is ideal.
Choose Quality Ingredients: A good quality tuna and cheese will elevate the flavor significantly.
Variations Are Key: Feel free to swap out veggies based on what you have on hand; mixed bell peppers or corn can be delightful additions.
Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Just cover it with foil and bake it fresh when you’re ready.
Leftovers Rock: This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for lunch the next day.

Storage Tips

Once your casserole is cool, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, make sure to use freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 2 months, but I doubt it will last that long because it’s that good!

Nutrition Information

This recipe yields around 6 servings. Here’s a rough idea of the nutrition facts per serving:

Calories: 355
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 2g

Serving Suggestions

To compliment your tuna casserole, consider the following:

1. Buttered Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up the creamy casserole. It's a classic combo that will make you smile.
2. Garden Salad: A fresh green salad will provide a crunchy contrast, lightening up the meal.
3. Steamed Broccoli: This adds color and nutrition to your plate, plus it pairs wonderfully with the casserole.
4. Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle some olive oil, toss with salt, and roast for a delightful side.
5. Fruit Salad: A refreshing, sweet contrast to the savory, creamy dish. Perfect for balancing flavors!

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Tuna Casserole Recipe?

If you're looking to modify your dish, here are some substitutes to consider:

1. Chickpeas for Tuna: If you want a vegetarian version, chickpeas offer protein with a nutty flavor.
2. Mushroom Soup Alternatives: Use a homemade cream sauce or chicken soup for a different twist.
3. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini can replace egg noodles.
4. Greek Yogurt for Milk: It will add creaminess while being a healthier alternative.
5. Different Cheeses: Try mozzarella or pepper jack for a change in flavor.

Conclusion

Making a tuna casserole is not just about cooking; it’s about creating a dish that brings people together. Each step is a connection to memories of the past, with a promise of satisfaction in every bite. 

Whether you’re serving it to family or enjoying it solo, there's a certain joy in knowing it’s easy, comforting, and delicious. So go ahead, whip up this casserole, and let the nostalgia wash over you like a warm breeze on a sunny day. Dive in and experience the goodness!

You Might Also Like These Latest Recipes!

• Vasilopita Greek New Year’s Bread Recipe
• No Knead Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe
• Spicy Quinoa and Black Beans Recipe