Craving a comforting, healthy, and utterly delicious dinner that’s also quick to make? Look no further! This salmon casserole recipe with pasta is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, brimming with flaky salmon, and surprisingly simple to prepare. Forget takeout – this homemade dish is the epitome of easy recipes and healthy meals, all rolled into one satisfying package. Get ready to impress your family with this amazing quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.75 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
-
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
-
Sauté the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Combine the Sauce: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (undrained), heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
-
Add the Salmon: Gently stir in the salmon pieces. Reduce heat to low and simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the salmon, as it can become dry.
-
Combine and Bake: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat everything in the creamy salmon sauce. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
-
Bake (Optional): For an extra bubbly and golden topping, you can bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes. This step is optional but adds a nice touch.
-
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious and easy salmon pasta casserole!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Aim for al dente pasta – it should be cooked through but still have a slight firmness.
- Use fresh herbs: If possible, use fresh oregano and basil for a more vibrant flavor.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and herbs to your preference.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding other vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce.
Variations:
- Spicy Salmon Casserole: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
- Creamy Tomato Salmon Casserole: Use a whole can of crushed tomatoes instead of diced tomatoes for a richer tomato flavor.
- Lemon Herb Salmon Casserole: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a bright and zesty twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This salmon casserole recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and best recipes. It's a perfect example of healthy meals that don't compromise on flavor or ease of preparation. Enjoy!