There is something irresistibly comforting about a classic tuna casserole. Imagine a bubbling dish of creamy goodness, topped with golden breadcrumbs, wafting enticingly through your kitchen. creamy vegetable soup for comfort The rich aroma mingles with a hint of garlic and the subtle earthiness of mushrooms, inviting everyone to the dinner table like it’s a warm embrace on a chilly evening. quinoa soup with kale.
This classic tuna casserole isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia in a dish. I remember my childhood when my mom would whip it up for dinner after long days at school. The family would gather around, forks poised like tiny soldiers, ready to dive into that cheesy goodness. hearty almond Greek salad Whether you’re reminiscing about cozy weeknights or hosting a casual gathering, this recipe is bound to bring smiles and full bellies.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This classic tuna casserole is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its creamy texture and savory flavors are sure to please everyone at the table
- Visually appealing with a crisp breadcrumb topping, it’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat
- Versatile enough for potlucks or family dinners, this dish can easily be customized based on your pantry staples
Nothing quite compares to my cousin’s face when she first tasted this dish at our family reunion. She was skeptical about tuna in her casserole, but one bite turned her into an instant fan.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Canned Tuna: Use high-quality tuna packed in water or oil for better flavor and texture.
Pasta: Any small pasta works well; I often use elbow macaroni for that classic feel.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: A must-have for creaminess; consider making your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
Frozen Peas: They add color and sweetness—just toss them in without thawing.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to; it melts beautifully and adds richness.
Breadcrumbs: Choose plain or seasoned for the topping that adds crunch and texture.
Onions and Garlic: Sauté these together until fragrant for an aromatic base.
Milk: Helps achieve that creamy consistency; whole milk works best. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Seafood Delight recipe.
Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget these staples to enhance all those lovely flavors!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. ultimate breakfast burrito.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking while you prepare the casserole.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant—about 3-5 minutes—creating a flavorful base for your casserole.
Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and cook your pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside, making sure not to overcook—it will finish cooking in the oven!
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together drained tuna, cooked pasta, cream of mushroom soup, frozen peas, sautéed onions, milk, salt, pepper, and half of your cheese until well combined.
Add to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula so every bite has that creamy goodness.
Topping Time!: Sprinkle remaining cheese on top followed by breadcrumbs for that crispy finish. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle some melted butter over the breadcrumbs.
Bake It Up!: Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let it cool slightly before serving; trust me—it’ll be hard to resist diving right in!
Now you’ve created a mouthwatering classic tuna casserole that’s sure to impress!
You Must Know
- This classic tuna casserole is not just nostalgic; it’s a quick weeknight dinner savior
- The creamy texture and cheesy aroma create a cozy atmosphere, perfect for family gatherings or a simple comfort meal
- Plus, it’s easily customizable to fit any pantry!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta al dente while you prepare the creamy sauce. Mix in the tuna and veggies, then layer everything in a baking dish for even baking. This sequence ensures that flavors meld perfectly without overcooking any ingredients. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap canned tuna for salmon or add different vegetables like peas or bell peppers. You can also sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for an extra crunch or toss in some cheese for added gooeyness. Make this recipe your own!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover tuna casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for a quick fix.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To avoid mushy pasta, cook it slightly underdone before baking
- Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for varied flavor profiles
- Adding a splash of lemon juice brightens the dish and enhances all the flavors beautifully
Sharing this classic tuna casserole always brings back memories of my childhood kitchen, where I first learned to make it with my grandmother. Her secret ingredient was always a dash of love—and maybe some extra cheese too!
FAQ
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tuna works well but requires proper cooking before adding it to the casserole.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and check all canned ingredients for gluten content.
Can I freeze classic tuna casserole?
Absolutely! Just wrap it tightly in foil and freeze before baking for up to three months.
Classic Tuna Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the comforting embrace of this classic tuna casserole, a nostalgic dish that brings family and friends together. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with golden breadcrumbs, each bite is a delightful blend of flavors reminiscent of cozy weeknights. Perfect for busy evenings or casual gatherings, this recipe is quick to prepare and can be easily customized to suit your pantry staples.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (5 oz each) high-quality tuna packed in water, drained
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup frozen peas (no need to thaw)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions and garlic until translucent (about 3-5 minutes).
- Cook elbow macaroni in boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix drained tuna, cooked pasta, cream of mushroom soup, frozen peas, sautéed onions and garlic, milk, salt, pepper, and half of the cheese.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly.
- Top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs; drizzle with melted butter if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (210g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Leave a Comment