Seven Seas Casserole
A comforting tuna casserole featuring rice, peas, and a creamy mushroom soup base, topped with melted cheese and paprika. This easy-to-make dish offers a savory blend of flavors, perfect for family dinners or weeknight meals that satisfy with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix water with cream of mushroom soup, chopped onion, salt, lemon juice, and pepper in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Pour about half of the soup mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Layer in the partially thawed frozen peas, rice, and tuna.
- Add the rest of the soup mixture on top.
- Sprinkle with grated Cheddar cheese and paprika.
- Cover and bake in a 375°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes.
- After 10 minutes of baking, cut through with a knife.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning. If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce can work as substitutes. For a vegetarian option, replace tuna with chickpeas or add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. Pairing with a side salad can balance the richness of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For an extra touch, consider serving with a side of steamed vegetables or a light vinaigrette salad to complement the creamy texture of the Seven Seas Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Seven Seas Casserole contains roughly 692 calories, with 24g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (276% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (146% of the Daily Value), and iron (132% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1192mg per serving (52% 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 Minute rice?
While Minute rice cooks quickly and is convenient for this recipe, you can substitute brown rice. However, you will need to adjust the liquid and cooking time, as brown rice typically requires more water and a longer cooking time. Approximately 2 cups of water and 40-45 minutes of baking may be necessary.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Can I add other seafood to this recipe?
Absolutely! This casserole is versatile, and you can incorporate shrimp, crab, or even scallops for a seafood twist. Just ensure the seafood is cooked before layering it in the casserole for the best texture and flavor.
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).