Saucy Tuna Casserole
A hearty tuna casserole with tender noodles, savory tomato sauce, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cook noodles according to package directions.
- In a medium skillet, heat oil and cook onion and green pepper until tender.
- Stir in tomato sauce, water, salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a 2-quart casserole, combine cooked noodles, sauce, and drained tuna.
- Bake, covered, for 30 minutes or until heated through.
- Remove from oven, top with shredded Cheddar cheese, and let stand, covered, until cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a can of cream of mushroom soup to the sauce mixture. You can substitute the tuna with canned salmon or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a different flavor. If you prefer a bit of spice, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. This dish is a great way to utilize leftover vegetables from your fridge.
Serving Suggestions
This Saucy Tuna Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with garlic bread for added flavor. For a comforting twist, try offering it alongside a bowl of creamy tomato soup. Explore more American recipes for additional side ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Saucy Tuna Casserole contains roughly 754 calories, with 22g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value), protein (44% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1804mg per serving (78% 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 whole wheat noodles instead of regular noodles?
Yes, whole wheat noodles can be a healthier option and will work just as well in this recipe. They may have a slightly nuttier flavor and a firmer texture, but they will absorb the sauce nicely and provide added fiber to your dish.
Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular noodles with gluten-free pasta made from rice or quinoa. Additionally, ensure that your tomato sauce and any seasonings used are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the dish without compromising on taste or texture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven, and adjust the baking time accordingly.
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).