Microwave Overnight Tuna Casserole
Creamy and comforting tuna casserole with peas and cheddar, perfect for a quick, microwave-friendly dinner that can be prepared ahead and enjoyed family-style.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cream of celery soup and milk in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Stir in the drained tuna, uncooked elbow macaroni, frozen peas, chopped onion, and 3/4 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Refrigerate the mixture overnight.
- Cover and microwave on High for 15 minutes.
- Sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Let stand for 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese melts and casserole is ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some garlic powder or a splash of lemon juice. You can substitute the tuna with canned chicken or beans for a different protein source. If you prefer a creamier texture, use half-and-half instead of milk. This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables, similar to the Garden Veggie Quiche for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra pop of flavor. It pairs nicely with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a slice of crusty bread or a fresh fruit salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions on medium for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. You can also add a splash of milk to maintain creaminess when reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Overnight Tuna Casserole contains roughly 908 calories, with 33g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (78% of the Daily Value), protein (67% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1380mg per serving (60% 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 gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta may cook faster. Follow the package instructions for the best results.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, omit the tuna and add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also increase the amount of frozen peas or incorporate canned beans for added protein.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the mixture overnight?
Chilling the mixture overnight allows the flavors to meld together and the pasta to absorb some of the liquid, resulting in a creamier texture. However, if you're short on time, you can skip this step and proceed directly to microwaving.
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).