Terrific Tuna Casserole
A creamy tuna casserole loaded with water chestnuts, cashew nuts, and crunchy chow mein noodles, ideal for a comforting family meal with a savory flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine tuna, water chestnuts, cashew nuts, diced onion, and diced celery in a bowl.
- Mix the ingredients together with the mushroom soup until well combined.
- Spray a casserole dish with cooking spray and pour the mixture into it.
- Top the casserole with chow mein noodles.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 45 minutes until heated through and golden on top.
- Serve hot, accompanied by rolls and a tossed salad for a complete meal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the mushroom soup mixture. If you're looking for a crunchier topping, try using crushed potato chips instead of chow mein noodles. You can also swap out the tuna for canned salmon or chicken if you prefer. This dish can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables or spices for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole hot, alongside warm dinner rolls and a fresh tossed salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a light soup. For a more festive touch, consider serving it with a refreshing Curried Tuna Rice Salad for an interesting contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Terrific Tuna Casserole contains roughly 636 calories, with 20g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value), iron (39% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1308mg per serving (57% 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 a day in advance. Simply assemble the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
Absolutely! You can substitute the tuna with a combination of chickpeas and additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to create a hearty vegetarian version. Use vegetable soup instead of mushroom soup for a fully plant-based meal.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra kick. Adjust the spice level to your preference for a deliciously zesty dish.
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).