Macaroni, Cheese And Tuna Casserole
A comforting baked casserole combining macaroni, tuna, vegetables, and creamy cheese, topped with crackers and melted cheese—perfect for a quick, hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to box directions and drain.
- In a mixing bowl, combine drained tuna, drained mixed vegetables, and cream of celery soup. Stir until well mixed.
- Add about half of the Colby Longhorn cheese to the mixture and stir until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish.
- Top with crumbled saltine crackers.
- Slice the remaining cheese and place over the crackers.
- Put the casserole in the microwave or oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream to the tuna and vegetable mixture. If you want to enhance the flavor, sprinkle in some garlic powder or onion powder. You can substitute the mixed vegetables with frozen peas or corn for a different taste. Additionally, leftover cooked macaroni from other dishes can be used, making this a great way to repurpose ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a slice of crusty bread. This dish also complements other seafood recipes, such as a light shrimp sautéed in herb butter for a complete dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, you can place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed and the cheese is bubbly again. This dish retains its flavor well and is great for quick meals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni, Cheese And Tuna Casserole contains roughly 165 calories, with 23g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (67% of the Daily Value) and protein (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 879mg per serving (38% 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 cheese?
Absolutely! While Colby Longhorn cheese adds a nice flavor, you can substitute it with cheddar, mozzarella, or even a blend of your favorites. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to your taste preference, as some cheeses melt differently.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you're ready to bake, remove the cover and follow the cooking instructions, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
What can I add to make this dish more nutritious?
You can increase the nutritional value by adding fresh or frozen spinach, kale, or even some diced bell peppers to the mixture. These additions not only boost the vitamins and minerals but also add a vibrant color to the dish, making it visually appealing.
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).