Kathryn'S Famous Tuna Casserole
Kathryn's Famous Tuna Casserole is a comforting, savory dish featuring tender tuna, creamy soup, and crunchy crackers, all baked to a golden perfection. With hints of onion and peas, it offers a hearty, family-friendly meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix all ingredients in a casserole dish: tuna, cream of celery soup, crumbled soda crackers, English peas, milk, and chopped onion.
- Bake in the oven until golden brown, about 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream. You can substitute the tuna with canned salmon or even shredded chicken for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a crunchier topping, increase the amount of crumbled soda crackers. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to add herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For an added touch, serve with a dollop of tartar sauce or a simple lemon wedge to brighten the flavors. This dish is a comforting classic, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kathryn'S Famous Tuna Casserole contains roughly 501 calories, with 22g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value) and iron (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 625mg per serving (27% 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 tuna instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna, but you'll need to cook and flake it before adding it to the casserole. Canned tuna is convenient and provides a softer texture, but fresh tuna will give a more robust flavor. Just ensure it's well-seasoned.
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 even make a homemade version. To create a similar consistency, mix equal parts of heavy cream with sautéed celery and onion, then blend until smooth.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix all the ingredients and assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).