Lun Lafollette'S Tuna Casserole
A hearty tuna casserole with cheesy, creamy flavors, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a quick, satisfying meal with vegetables and tender noodles.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the noodles until al dente, then drain.
- Mix cooked noodles with tuna, drained peas and carrots, mushrooms, mushroom soup, celery soup, chopped onion, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the noodle mixture. If you prefer a crunchier topping, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the cheese before baking. For a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This dish can be easily customized with different vegetables, like bell peppers or broccoli.
Serving Suggestions
This tuna casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs wonderfully with a light Caesar Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it with crusty bread or a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, try adding a side of Easy Tuna Fish Salad to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover tuna casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lun Lafollette'S Tuna Casserole contains roughly 344 calories, with 27g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (92% of the Daily Value), protein (53% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1079mg per serving (47% 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 will need to cook it first. Poach or grill the tuna until fully cooked, then flake it into the casserole mixture. Keep in mind that fresh tuna may require a bit more seasoning than canned, so adjust the salt and pepper accordingly.
What can I substitute for mushroom soup?
If you don't have mushroom soup on hand, you can make a simple substitute by using a mixture of cream, broth, and sautéed mushrooms. Alternatively, a can of cream of chicken soup or cream of celery soup can work well as a substitute, depending on your flavor preference.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this tuna casserole gluten-free, simply use gluten-free noodles and ensure that your soups are gluten-free as well. Many brands offer gluten-free options that are just as creamy and delicious, allowing you to enjoy this classic dish without any gluten.
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).