No Fuss Tuna Casserole
A creamy, hearty tuna casserole packed with mushrooms, peas, and cheesy goodness, perfect for satisfying a family dinner or comfort food craving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, Cheddar cheese soup, tomato sauce, and cream cheese.
- Heat until the cheese melts, then stir well and season with salt, pepper, garlic, and oregano to taste.
- Meanwhile, boil the macaroni in a Dutch oven until almost done.
- Drain the tuna, green peas, and mushrooms (if using).
- When the noodles are almost cooked, drain them and mix all ingredients together in a large bowl or the pot.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, top with grated cheese, and cover with a lid.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or broth to the sauce mixture. You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version or use other creamy soups like chicken or celery. Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as corn or bell peppers for added flavor. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked macaroni to speed up the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
This no fuss tuna casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For added crunch, serve with toasted bread or garlic bread on the side. Consider a light dessert like fruit salad or yogurt parfait to round out your meal. This dish is great for potlucks or family gatherings, and it’s a comforting choice in any season.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover tuna casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, covered, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of No Fuss Tuna Casserole contains roughly 675 calories, with 35g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (209% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2020mg per serving (88% 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 tuna?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna, but it will require cooking beforehand. Sauté the fresh tuna until cooked through, then flake it and mix it into the casserole. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will differ slightly from using canned tuna.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or sour cream. Both will add creaminess to the casserole. However, be aware that the flavor might change slightly; Greek yogurt will add tanginess while sour cream provides richness.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, to make a vegetarian version, simply omit the tuna and instead add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. You can also consider adding plant-based protein sources such as chickpeas or lentils to keep it hearty and satisfying.
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).