Terri'S Favorite Tuna Bake
A comforting tuna casserole with creamy mushroom soup and tender egg noodles, perfect for weeknight dinners and family gatherings with savory, hearty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions and drain.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, drained tuna, and mushroom soup; mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a 3-quart casserole dish, optionally spraying with Pam.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture before baking. If you prefer a healthier take, substitute whole wheat egg noodles and low-sodium mushroom soup. You can also add frozen peas or chopped bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. This recipe is versatile; explore variations by adding ingredients from seafood recipes like Mama's Crab Meat Imperial to enhance its richness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tuna Bake hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a light soup, such as Fish Chowder, to round out your dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed throughout.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Terri'S Favorite Tuna Bake contains roughly 389 calories, with 32g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 968mg per serving (42% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Tuna Bake ahead of time. Assemble the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, simply remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed.
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh tuna, cook it first by poaching or grilling, then flake it into the mixture. Fresh tuna will provide a richer flavor and texture, making your bake even more delicious. Just ensure it is well-seasoned to balance the dish.
What can I substitute for mushroom soup?
If you don't have mushroom soup on hand, you can create a homemade version using a roux of butter, flour, and milk, along with sautéed mushrooms for flavor. Alternatively, cream of chicken soup or a dairy-free option can also work well, depending on your dietary preferences.
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).