Tuna Casserole Recipe

Tuna casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that has been a family favorite for generations. The combination of tender pasta, creamy sauce, and protein-packed tuna creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights or as a budget-friendly option. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dish never disappoints.

Equipment:

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni or any pasta shape
• 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in oil or water, drained and flaked
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a large skillet, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and heated through over medium heat.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, flaked tuna, frozen peas (if using), and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   Transfer the tuna pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly and top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Add the Topping:
   In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
7. Serve:
   Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm, and enjoy this hearty, creamy meal.

Presentation Ideas:

• Serve in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
• Pair with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Add a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for extra flavor and color.

Tips:

• For a crunchier topping, add a handful of crushed potato chips along with the breadcrumbs.
• For a healthier twist, use whole wheat pasta and low-fat sour cream.
• You can swap the peas for other vegetables like corn or carrots, depending on your preference.
• This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.

Tuna casserole is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something simple yet satisfying. With creamy sauce, tender pasta, and a crunchy topping, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Make it for your next dinner and enjoy the warm, nostalgic flavors!

Tuna Casserole Recipe

Make this classic tuna casserole for a hearty and comforting meal. Packed with tuna, creamy sauce, and crispy breadcrumbs, it’s the perfect easy dinner for the whole family.

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Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet
• 9x13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups elbow macaroni or any pasta shape
• 2 cans 5 oz each tuna in oil or water, drained and flaked
• 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese divided
• 1/2 cup frozen peas optional
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs preferably panko
• 2 tablespoons butter melted

Instructions

 

• Cook the Pasta:
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Prepare the Sauce:
• In a large skillet, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and heated through over medium heat.
• Combine the Ingredients:
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, flaked tuna, frozen peas (if using), and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
• Assemble the Casserole:
• Transfer the tuna pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly and top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
• Add the Topping:
• In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
• Bake:
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
• Serve:
• Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm, and enjoy this hearty, creamy meal.