Tasty Tuna Casserole
Creamy tuna casserole with peas and onions, baked to perfection, offering comforting flavors perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in cornstarch, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Remove from heat and gradually stir in milk.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until mixture comes to a boil.
- Stir in chopped onion.
- Place drained tuna, cooked macaroni, and thawed peas in a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Stir in the cornstarch mixture into the casserole.
- Sprinkle cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or using half-and-half instead of skim milk. If you prefer a more robust flavor, sauté garlic along with the onion or add some shredded cheese to the mixture. You can substitute the tuna with canned salmon or shredded chicken for a different twist. For a healthier alternative, use whole wheat macaroni.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Tasty Tuna Casserole with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or garlic bread. For added flavor, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or dill on top before serving. This dish is a great addition to any family gathering or potluck, making it a favorite among American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until hot. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tasty Tuna Casserole contains roughly 860 calories, with 5g protein, 159g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), iron (26% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1497mg per serving (65% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble all the ingredients in the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What type of cheese works best for topping?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for topping tuna casserole, but you can experiment with other varieties like mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for more flavor. For a gourmet touch, try using Gruyère or a sharp blue cheese.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen peas?
Absolutely! Fresh peas or even diced bell peppers and carrots can be used instead of frozen peas. Just make sure to cook them slightly before adding to the casserole to ensure they are tender by the time the dish is baked.
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).