Tuna And Water Chestnut Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tuna, vegetables, and creamy soups, topped with crispy noodles for a comforting and flavorful dish suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the sliced water chestnuts and place them into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Add the flaked tuna, chow mein vegetables, cream of celery soup, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and mix well.
- Spread crushed chow mein noodles or potato chips over the top of the mixture.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some diced onions or bell peppers. If you don't have chow mein vegetables, frozen mixed vegetables work well. For a creamier texture, you can substitute sour cream for some of the milk. This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can serve it alongside fluffy rice or buttered noodles for a heartier option. Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for garnish and extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna And Water Chestnut Casserole contains roughly 767 calories, with 19g protein, 142g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (43% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 745mg per serving (32% 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, you can use fresh cooked tuna instead of canned. Just ensure it's well-flaked and cooked thoroughly. This will enhance the flavor and texture, making it closer to dishes like Tuna Zucchini Cakes.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or even make a homemade white sauce with mushrooms. This substitution will maintain the creamy texture and flavor profile of the casserole.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free chow mein noodles or potato chips as a topping instead of regular ones. Ensure all soups and other canned ingredients are labeled gluten-free to keep the casserole safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
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).