Cherie'S Tuna Casserole
A creamy, cheesy tuna casserole with mushrooms and peas, perfect for comforting family dinners and quick weeknight meals, blending savory flavors in a hearty baked dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni until done; drain.
- Add cheese from the package and mix well.
- Combine remaining ingredients including cream of mushroom soup, sliced mushrooms with juice, chunk tuna, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- Top with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until cheese is light brown, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of Cherie's Tuna Casserole, consider adding some diced onions or garlic while cooking the macaroni. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute whole wheat macaroni or use a low-fat cream of mushroom soup. For a vegetarian version, swap out the tuna with chickpeas or additional vegetables. This dish is flexible and can be customized based on what you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
Cherie's Tuna Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or some crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it with roasted vegetables or a light soup. This dish is comforting and filling, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. If you're looking for dessert, browse more American recipes like Shortbread Squares to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, just ensure they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherie'S Tuna Casserole contains roughly 350 calories, with 18g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (89% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value), and protein (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1667mg per serving (72% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese is delicious, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for more flavor. Just make sure to shred the cheese for even melting.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, to make Cherie's Tuna Casserole gluten-free, simply use gluten-free macaroni. Ensure that the cream of mushroom soup is labeled gluten-free as well, or make your own at home using gluten-free ingredients.
Can I freeze the casserole before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).