Tuna casserole is the comfort food and a timeless dish that blends hearty ingredients with irresistible flavors with its creamy sauce, tender pasta, and the subtle saltiness of tuna, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a nostalgic dish for family gatherings.
What Is Tuna Casserole?
At its core, tuna casserole is a baked dish combining tuna, pasta, a creamy sauce (often using canned soup as a base), and a crunchy topping, usually breadcrumbs or fried onions. It’s budget-friendly, quick to prepare, and endlessly versatile, making it a favorite for busy families and potlucks.
Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Tuna Casserole
Achieving a flawless tuna casserole is easier than you think! Here are some expert tips:
- Use Quality Tuna: Opt for high-quality canned tuna in oil for richer flavor or tuna in water for a lighter option. Albacore or chunk light tuna works best.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook your pasta before baking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Choose the Right Sauce: A can of cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup is traditional, but you can elevate the dish with homemade béchamel.
- Add Vegetables: Frozen peas, carrots, or chopped mushrooms not only boost nutrition but also add texture.
- Go for a Crispy Topping: Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter or use crushed potato chips for an irresistible crunch.
Tuna Casserole Variations
While the classic recipe is delightful, don’t be afraid to experiment! Here are some popular variations:
- Low-Carb Tuna Casserole: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version.
- Cheesy Tuna Casserole: Add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan to the sauce for a gooey, cheesy twist.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and top with dairy-free cheese.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños for heat lovers.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
How to Serve Tuna Casserole
Tuna casserole is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with sides. Serve it with:
- Salads: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up every bit of creamy sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans complement the dish beautifully.
How to Store and Reheat Tuna Casserole
Proper storage ensures that your tuna casserole stays fresh and delicious.
- Refrigeration: Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezing: Tuna casserole freezes exceptionally well. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For frozen casserole, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I make tuna casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake just before serving.
2. What’s the best pasta for tuna casserole?
Elbow macaroni, egg noodles, or penne work best as they hold the sauce well.
3. Can I substitute fresh tuna for canned?
Yes! Cook and flake fresh tuna before incorporating it into the casserole for a fresher taste.
4. How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Cover the dish with foil during baking and remove it for the last 10 minutes to achieve a golden crust.
5. What’s a good substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
You can use cream of chicken, cream of celery, or a homemade roux-based sauce for a unique spin.
Tuna Casserole
Tuna casserole is the comfort food and a timeless dish that blends hearty ingredients with irresistible flavors with its creamy sauce, tender pasta, and the subtle saltiness of tuna, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 (6-ounce) cans tuna, drained
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 8 ounces sliced fresh mushrooms
- 12 ounces wide egg noodles
- 2 cups chopped broccoli (about 1/2 pound)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 cup crushed potato chips
- 1 tablespoon cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Bring 4 quarts of salted water to a boil in a large pot.
- Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: Add the noodles and cook until just shy of al dente. In the final 2 minutes, toss in the broccoli. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Mushrooms: In a dry pan over medium-high heat, cook the mushrooms until their juices release (5–10 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Sauté the Onions: Melt butter in an oven-proof pan over medium heat. Sauté the onions until soft and translucent.
- Combine Ingredients: In the pot with the drained noodles and broccoli, mix in mushrooms, tuna, soup, cheese, milk, and cream. Season with salt and pepper.
- Top and Bake: Spread the mixture into the oven-proof pan and sprinkle crushed potato chips over the top.
- Bake for 20 minutes at 400°F, until the topping is golden and crisp.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 490Total Fat 29gSaturated Fat 14gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 88mgSodium 1909mgCarbohydrates 35gFiber 4gSugar 7gProtein 23g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, tuna casserole is a foolproof recipe that delivers every time. By incorporating your favorite ingredients and following these tips, you can create a dish that’s uniquely yours while honoring the comforting tradition of this beloved classic. Try it today, and don’t forget to share your variations in the comments below!
