Chinese Tuna
A hearty Chinese-inspired tuna casserole featuring noodles, vegetables, and creamy soups, perfect for a comforting family dinner with bold flavors and textural variety.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place one can of Chinese noodles in the bottom of a buttered casserole dish.
- Mix together the remaining ingredients: cream of chicken soup, mushroom soup, soy sauce, water chestnuts, tuna, milk, and one can of noodles.
- Pour the mixture over the noodles in the casserole.
- Top with the other can of noodles.
- Shave 1 tablespoon of margarine over the noodles.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk to the mixture. If you want to enhance the flavor, try using low-sodium soy sauce. You can also substitute the tuna with canned chicken for a different protein option. This dish can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking, making it a great choice for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chinese Tuna dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Little Dumplings or can be enjoyed alongside rice for a heartier option. For a complete dinner, consider serving with a light Asian-inspired soup as a starter.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Tuna contains roughly 512 calories, with 24g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value) and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 fresh vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, you can certainly add fresh vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added crunch and nutrition. Just sauté them briefly before mixing with the other ingredients to ensure they cook properly while baking.
Is there a gluten-free option for the noodles?
Absolutely! Look for gluten-free Chinese noodles made from rice or mung bean starch, which can be a great substitute. Just make sure to check the labels to ensure they fit your dietary needs.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in a teaspoon of chili sauce or adding sliced jalapeños to the casserole mixture. You can also serve it with a side of hot sauce for those who prefer an extra kick.
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).