Crunchy Seafood Casserole
A creamy, crunchy seafood casserole combining tuna, shrimp, and nuts with chow mein noodles for a flavorful, satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Empty the cream of chicken or mushroom soup and evaporated milk into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Add the tuna, shrimp, chopped onion, chopped celery, and chopped nuts.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Season with salt and pepper, going light on the salt.
- Add three-quarters of the chow mein noodles and mix again.
- Cover the casserole with the remaining chow mein noodles.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like dill or parsley. If you're looking for a lighter version, swap the cream of chicken soup for a low-fat alternative or a homemade version. You can also substitute the tuna with canned salmon for a different taste. Make sure to mix the ingredients gently to keep the seafood chunks intact.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is great on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic cheese croutons for extra crunch. You can also serve it with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with steamed vegetables or rice.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overcook, as it can dry out the seafood.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crunchy Seafood Casserole contains roughly 510 calories, with 13g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (33% of the Daily Value) and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 991mg per serving (43% 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 seafood instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh shrimp or cooked chicken in place of the canned seafood. Just ensure to cook the fresh seafood before adding it to the casserole to avoid undercooking issues. Fresh seafood can elevate the dish's flavor and texture.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
Absolutely! You can make a vegetarian version by replacing seafood with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. Use vegetable soup instead of cream of chicken and omit the nuts or use roasted chickpeas for crunch.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the mixture. You could also serve it with a spicy hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
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).