Traci'S Tuna Casserole
Creamy tuna casserole with cheesy topping and broccoli, perfect for comforting family dinners and quick lunches, blending rich flavors with a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat.
- Mix the flour with an additional 1/2 cup of milk to create a slurry.
- Add the flour-milk mixture to the heated milk and stir well to thicken.
- Season with salt, pepper, and dill.
- Add the drained tuna and chopped broccoli to the sauce.
- Let the mixture simmer to blend flavors.
- Combine the sauce with cooked and drained pasta.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
- Sprinkle cracker crumbs over the cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of garlic powder to the sauce. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute whole wheat pasta or use gluten-free pasta. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can also be added for a vibrant touch. For more seafood options, browse more American recipes that feature tuna.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this tuna casserole with a side of mixed greens or a light salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Erwin'S Shrimp for a seafood-themed dinner. You can also add a slice of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For an extra crunch, consider serving with a side of roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Traci'S Tuna Casserole contains roughly 728 calories, with 34g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (123% of the Daily Value), iron (88% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (74% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2527mg per serving (110% 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 fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tuna can be used, but it will require cooking beforehand. Simply sear or bake the tuna until fully cooked, then flake it into the casserole. This will give you a fresher taste, but canned tuna is more convenient and still delicious.
What can I substitute for the cheeses?
If you want to reduce calories or change the flavor, you can use low-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative. Cream cheese can also be mixed in for creaminess. Experimenting with different cheese blends, like pepper jack for a kick, can elevate the dish.
Can this casserole be prepared ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold. This makes it a great option for meal prep.
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).