Are you craving a comforting, nostalgic dish that’s quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser? Look no further than this Tuna Casserole recipe! This classic elbow macaroni casserole is a simple yet delicious meal perfect for a busy weeknight or a family gathering. It's one of those easy recipes that's surprisingly healthy and satisfying, making it a winner for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all levels. Get ready to experience the joy of a truly comforting, delicious dish!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes about 6 servings. Adjust quantities as needed for your crowd.
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 (12 ounce) can tuna in water, drained
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Cook the pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Prepare the tuna mixture: In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, mayonnaise, and chopped onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
Combine and bake: Add the cooked macaroni to the tuna mixture and stir until evenly coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Top it off: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and bread crumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the bread crumbs for extra cheesy goodness.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown. Let it stand for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
Cooking Tips for the Best Tuna Casserole:
- For a richer flavor, use cream of mushroom soup made with real mushrooms.
- If you prefer a creamier casserole, add an extra tablespoon or two of milk or mayonnaise.
- Don’t overcook the macaroni. Slightly undercooked pasta will finish cooking in the oven.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as peas, carrots, or green beans, to your tuna casserole for added nutrition and flavor.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Tuna Casserole: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the tuna mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Tuna Casserole: Increase the amount of cheddar cheese to 1/2 cup or add a blend of cheeses for a more intense cheesy flavor.
- Gourmet Tuna Casserole: Use panko bread crumbs for a crispier topping, and add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a sophisticated touch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This tuna casserole recipe is a great example of healthy meals that don’t sacrifice flavor. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, providing a satisfying and delicious meal the whole family will enjoy. Enjoy this easy and flavorful homemade cooking experience!