Fishy Mac Casserole
A cheesy tuna casserole with peas and a crunchy corn chip topping, perfect for a quick, satisfying family meal with bold flavors and crispy texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Make macaroni and cheese according to package directions; add drained tuna and peas and stir well.
- Spread the mixture into a baking dish.
- Lay cheese slices across the top of the mixture.
- Sprinkle smashed corn chips on top and bake for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the macaroni mixture. If you want to boost the flavor, try adding some garlic powder or onion powder. You can substitute the canned tuna with canned salmon or even cooked chicken if you prefer. For a healthier option, use whole wheat macaroni and cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This Fishy Mac Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. To enhance the dish, serve it with a side of tartar sauce or homemade coleslaw. For a fun variation, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or even a light soup to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out, and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fishy Mac Casserole contains roughly 773 calories, with 27g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (53% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1074mg per serving (47% 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 instead of frozen peas?
Absolutely! Fresh peas or even diced bell peppers can be used in place of frozen peas. Just be sure to cook the fresh vegetables slightly before adding them to the casserole to ensure they are tender by the time it’s done baking.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this Fishy Mac Casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free macaroni and cheese. There are several brands available that taste great and will work perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure that any other ingredients, like corn chips, are also gluten-free.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Simply assemble it up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be going into the oven cold.
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).