Classic Tuna Casserole
A comforting tuna casserole with creamy sauce, peas, and crunchy bread crumbs, perfect for a quick family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F.
- In a small saucepan, combine the soup mix and boiling water.
- Heat to boiling.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
- Blend in flour and pepper.
- Gradually stir in the hot soup and cook until thickened.
- Add drained tuna and fold in drained peas.
- Turn the mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart dish.
- Top with buttered bread crumbs.
- Bake for 15 minutes until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the mixture before baking. If you prefer a bit of spice, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes. You can substitute the chicken noodle soup mix with a homemade version using chicken broth and seasonings. For a healthier option, swap canned peas with fresh or frozen peas.
Serving Suggestions
This Classic Tuna Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a side of Homemade Chicken Salad for a refreshing contrast. A light, crisp white wine can also complement the flavors well.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Classic Tuna Casserole contains roughly 425 calories, with 11g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (138% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 tuna instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna, but it should be cooked and flaked before adding it to the casserole. Keep in mind that fresh tuna will have a different texture and flavor compared to canned, so adjust your seasoning accordingly.
What can I use instead of bread crumbs?
If you don't have bread crumbs on hand, crushed crackers or cornflakes can be a great substitute. You can also use panko for a crunchier topping. For a gluten-free option, consider using ground almonds or gluten-free bread crumbs.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of the casserole, simply omit the tuna and use a vegetable broth instead of chicken noodle soup mix. You can add additional vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and texture.
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).