Four Winds Casserole
A savory casserole combining tuna, crunchy water chestnuts, and noodles in a creamy curry sauce, perfect for a comforting family meal or potluck dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion, chopped celery, and chopped water chestnuts in oil until the onion is soft.
- Add drained and flaked tuna and minced parsley; stir-fry for 1 minute.
- Combine cream of celery soup, curry powder, and cream or milk in a bowl.
- Stir the tuna mixture into the soup mixture.
- Mix in chow mein noodles, reserving 1/2 cup for topping.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow 1-quart casserole dish.
- Top with the reserved noodles.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 45 minutes, until crisp and lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like dill or thyme in place of parsley. If you want a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the cream or milk. You can also use rotisserie chicken or canned salmon instead of tuna for a different twist. For a bit of crunch, try adding some slivered almonds or chopped bell peppers. This casserole is a great way to use up leftover vegetables as well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole hot, garnished with additional minced parsley for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving alongside crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a festive touch, it can also complement dishes like Easter'S Crab Dip or Baked Shrimp Scampi at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, heating at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Four Winds Casserole contains roughly 1016 calories, with 25g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (50% of the Daily Value) and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 732mg per serving (32% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply add 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I substitute for cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup as a substitute. Alternatively, you can make a homemade version by mixing equal parts of heavy cream and vegetable or chicken broth with sautéed onions and celery for flavor.
Is this casserole freezable?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When you're ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. However, note that the texture of the noodles may change slightly after freezing.
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).