Five-Can Dump
A quick, comforting casserole combining tuna, creamy soups, and vegetables, topped with crunchy chow mein noodles—perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the tuna, cream of celery soup, cream of mushroom soup, and Chinese vegetables.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the chow mein noodles evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. If you want to boost the flavor, stir in some garlic powder or onion powder. You can swap the tuna for canned chicken or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Use any canned vegetable you have on hand if Chinese vegetables aren't available. This dish is a great way to use up pantry staples.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, and consider pairing it with a simple green salad or steamed rice for a complete meal. It also goes well with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a fun twist, serve it alongside a bowl of New England Clam Chowder Soup for a hearty dinner that highlights comforting American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Five-Can Dump contains roughly 562 calories, with 22g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value) and iron (25% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 793mg per serving (34% 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 canned?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables, but they should be cooked and tender before adding them to the casserole. This will help ensure even cooking and prevent any crunchiness in the final dish.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the chow mein noodles with gluten-free crispy noodles or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, ensure that the cream soups used are labeled gluten-free.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
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).