Quick And Hearty Tuna Dinner
A quick and hearty tuna casserole featuring egg noodles, green beans, melted American cheese, and savory onion soup flavor—perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 4-quart saucepan, combine water, Lipton onion soup mix, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil.
- Gradually add uncooked egg noodles and stir in green beans, peas, or broccoli.
- If using peas, add them after the noodles have cooked for about 5 minutes.
- Return to a boil and cook and stir slowly over high heat for about 2 minutes.
- Simmer covered, stirring occasionally, for 7 minutes.
- Add tuna, shredded American cheese, and pimento (if using), then heat until the cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using low-sodium broth instead of water. If you don’t have egg noodles, any pasta can work in a pinch, though cooking times may vary. You can substitute the tuna with canned salmon or chicken for a different protein. To enhance the dish, try adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or some fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty tuna dinner with a light salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or your choice of a green side, like sautéed spinach. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside **Good Tuna Casserole** for a tuna-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out, and microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. This dish can also be reheated on the stovetop over low heat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick And Hearty Tuna Dinner contains roughly 174 calories, with 18g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 631mg per serving (27% 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 vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh vegetables can be used! Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly. For instance, fresh green beans may need a little longer to cook than frozen ones. You can add them at the same time as the noodles to ensure they're tender by the end.
What can I substitute for American cheese?
If you don't have American cheese, you can use cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the melting quality might vary slightly, but both will add a delicious creaminess to the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this tuna dinner is great for meal prep! It reheats well and can be portioned into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just be sure to store any garnishes, like pimento, separately until serving for the best texture.
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).