E Z Hot Dish
A hearty, cheesy tuna hot dish with macaroni, vegetables, and creamy mushroom soup, perfect for comforting family dinners and adaptable to various tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the onion and green pepper.
- Mix the uncooked elbow macaroni, drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, and grated Cheddar cheese in a large bowl.
- Let the mixture stand overnight in the refrigerator.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 30 minutes.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
- Optional: Serve chicken soup over the top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using extra cheese or substituting half of the milk with sour cream. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack. If you prefer a spicier dish, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. This dish can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting hot dish with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, consider pairing it with a light seafood companion like Shrimp Dip Mousse. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or additional cheese on top just before serving can elevate the dish further. Enjoy with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. For best results, add a splash of milk before reheating to maintain creaminess and prevent drying out. This dish also freezes well; just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of E Z Hot Dish contains roughly 934 calories, with 43g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (86% of the Daily Value), calcium (83% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1330mg per serving (58% 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 pasta?
You can also mix in some cooked vegetables like peas or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
You might also explore seafood recipes for alternative protein options.
How can I spice this dish up?
Additionally, serving a side of spicy dipping sauce can enhance the overall experience.
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).