Macaroni Tuna And Corn Casserole
A comforting baked casserole combining tender macaroni, flaked tuna, sweet corn, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for a quick, hearty family meal with smoky paprika flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Butter a baking dish.
- Cook macaroni in boiling water until tender but not soft, about 10 to 12 minutes, then drain.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Blend in flour and gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the mixture is thickened and smooth.
- Add salt, pepper, paprika, tuna, and corn to the sauce and stir well.
- Stir in half of the grated cheese into the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream to the cheese sauce. You can substitute the tuna with shredded chicken or beans for a different protein option. If you want to add more vegetables, consider incorporating peas or diced bell peppers. Adjust the spices to your preference and try adding a hint of garlic powder for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Consider serving it with crusty bread for a comforting weeknight dinner. For variety, try it alongside Tubetini Salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings; just be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni Tuna And Corn Casserole contains roughly 1054 calories, with 17g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), iron (36% of the Daily Value), and protein (35% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1880mg per serving (82% 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 different types of pasta in this casserole?
Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like penne or rotini. Just ensure that the pasta is cooked al dente before mixing it into the casserole to maintain the right texture during baking.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated throughout.
What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for alternatives, you can use Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese for a milder flavor. For a sharper taste, consider using Gruyère or a blend of Italian cheeses. Just make sure to adjust the amount according to your taste preference.
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).