Tuna And Macaroni Casserole(8 Servings)
A comforting casserole combining tender macaroni, flaky tuna, and melted American cheese, topped with bread crumbs and paprika for a savory, family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in boiling salted water until tender.
- Rinse in cold water and drain.
- Combine cooked macaroni with tuna, green pepper, red pimento, American cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Add Cream Sauce and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into individual casseroles or a baking dish.
- Top with buttered bread crumbs and lightly sprinkle with paprika.
- Bake at 350°F until brown and bubbly, about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider adding a touch of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. If you're short on American cheese, cheddar or a blend of your favorites works well too. You can also enhance the flavor with a dash of garlic powder or onion powder. For a kick, try mixing in some diced jalapeños or using a spicy cheese blend.
Serving Suggestions
This Tuna and Macaroni Casserole can be served as a comforting main dish paired with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a warm crusty roll. It also pairs beautifully with Tomato-Clam Cocktail for a delightful seafood-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to prevent drying out, for about 2-3 minutes on high, stirring halfway.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna And Macaroni Casserole(8 Servings) contains roughly 139 calories, with 9g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (13% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 679mg per serving (30% 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 up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use if I don't have tuna?
If you're looking for a substitute for tuna, shredded chicken or canned salmon works wonderfully in this recipe. For a vegetarian option, consider using a mix of beans or chickpeas to maintain that hearty texture while keeping it meat-free.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed.
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).