Overnight Tuna Casserole(Microwave)
A creamy, cheesy tuna casserole with green peas and onions, perfect for a comforting meal that can be prepared ahead of time. Its savory flavors and simple microwave cooking make it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, delivering hearty satisfaction with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Whisk the condensed cream of celery soup and milk in a 2-quart microwave-safe bowl until well blended.
- Stir in the drained water-packed tuna, uncooked elbow macaroni, frozen green peas, and chopped onion.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 12 hours or overnight, using a lid or vented plastic wrap.
- Microwave on High for 15 to 17 minutes until bubbly.
- Sprinkle with the reserved shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Let stand uncovered for 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture before refrigerating. You can substitute the elbow macaroni with whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options if desired. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can also enhance the dish. If you prefer a different cheese, mozzarella or Monterey Jack can work well too.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread to balance the richness. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside steamed vegetables or a light soup. Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine for a cozy dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated thoroughly. You may need to add a splash of milk to keep it creamy. This casserole also freezes well for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Overnight Tuna Casserole(Microwave) contains roughly 690 calories, with 25g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (50% of the Daily Value), calcium (47% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1415mg per serving (62% 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 make this casserole without tuna?
Absolutely! You can replace the tuna with shredded chicken or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the protein you choose. For a seafood twist, try adding shrimp or crab meat instead.
What can I use instead of cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup on hand, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce with seasonings. Using a different cream soup will slightly alter the flavor but will still yield a delicious casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole is perfect for make-ahead meals! Prepare it up to the point of microwaving, cover, and refrigerate overnight. When you're ready to bake, simply follow the microwave instructions. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious.
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).