Quickee Tuna Casserole
A quick and cheesy tuna casserole with rice and optional crunchy celery or almonds, perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the milk and cream of chicken soup together.
- Add the drained tuna, quick cooking rice, shredded Cheddar cheese, and chopped celery or almonds if using into a 1-quart casserole dish.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- Microwave the casserole for 7 to 8 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. If you want to boost the nutrition, throw in some frozen peas or corn. You can substitute the tuna with canned chicken for a different flavor, or use quinoa instead of rice for a healthier grain option. Make sure to adjust cooking time if you change the ingredients significantly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a comforting touch, consider serving it alongside a warm bowl of soup, like a classic tomato or chicken soup, to enhance the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave on medium heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated evenly. You can also bake it in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quickee Tuna Casserole contains roughly 319 calories, with 29g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (57% of the Daily Value) and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 937mg per serving (41% 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 brown rice instead of quick cooking rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but note that it will require a longer cooking time. Pre-cook the brown rice according to package instructions before adding it to the casserole to ensure everything heats evenly and the rice is tender.
Is there a gluten-free option for the cream of chicken soup?
Absolutely! Look for gluten-free canned cream of chicken soup or make your own using a simple recipe with cornstarch as a thickener. This way, you can enjoy the casserole without gluten while still keeping it creamy.
Can I freeze the tuna casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the tuna casserole! Make sure it cools completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to ensure even cooking.
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).