Hurry-Up Tuna Casserole
A comforting tuna casserole featuring creamy chicken soup and tender noodles, perfect for quick family dinners or weeknight comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the Creamette noodles according to package instructions, then drain.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the two cans of cream of chicken soup.
- Add the can of tuna to the mixture and gently fold to combine.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Serve warm and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded cheese to the mixture before baking. You can also substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for a different flavor. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked or leftover chicken instead of tuna. This dish is a great way to use up pantry staples, much like Gloria'S Corned Beef Macaroni.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole warm, garnished with a sprinkle of parsley or grated cheese for added flavor. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting twist, consider serving alongside American recipes like Hot Chicken Casserole Salad to round out your dinner.
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 or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method helps maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hurry-Up Tuna Casserole contains roughly 133 calories, with 12g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 826mg per serving (36% 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 step and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of tuna?
If you're not a fan of tuna, you can easily substitute it with shredded cooked chicken, or even diced ham for a unique twist. Both options will blend well with the creamy sauce and noodles, giving you a hearty casserole that still captures the comforting essence of this dish.
Can I freeze the tuna casserole?
Yes, this tuna casserole freezes well! After baking, allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through, or bake from frozen, increasing the cooking time.
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).