Hearty Tuna Casserole
A comforting tuna casserole featuring tender egg noodles, fresh vegetables, and melted Monterey Jack cheese. The creamy blend of sour cream, mayonnaise, and mustard creates a rich flavor, making it perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering. It combines savory tuna with fresh zucchini and tomato for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the tuna.
- Cook the egg noodles according to package directions.
- Drain and rinse the noodles in hot water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles with tuna, chopped celery, and chopped onion.
- Stir in sour cream, mustard, mayonnaise, thyme leaves, and salt until well blended.
- Spoon half of the mixture into a buttered casserole dish.
- Layer half of the sliced zucchini on top.
- Repeat with the remaining noodle mixture and zucchini layers.
- Sprinkle the top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Sprinkle chopped tomato on top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or adding some chopped bell peppers. If you're looking for a twist, try incorporating cooked shrimp for a seafood variation. Make sure to cook the noodles al dente as they will continue to cook while baking. For an extra crunch, top with breadcrumbs before adding cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty tuna casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it with crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up the creamy sauce. For a touch of elegance, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearty Tuna Casserole contains roughly 226 calories, with 14g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (93% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (47% of the Daily Value), and iron (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2140mg per serving (93% 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 instead of egg noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles provide a nice texture, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through properly.
Can I freeze the tuna casserole for later use?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. To freeze, cool completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking, and then follow the original baking instructions.
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).