Tuna Casserole With Cheese Swirls
A comforting tuna casserole with cheesy swirls and peas, perfect for weeknights and family dinners, combining creamy, savory flavors in a hearty baked dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chopped onion in shortening until tender.
- Stir in 1/4 cup of Bisquick.
- Add the cream of celery soup; gradually stir in the milk.
- Heat to boiling over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Boil and stir for 1 minute.
- Stir in the drained tuna, drained peas, and lemon juice.
- Pour the mixture into an ungreased 11 x 7-inch baking dish.
- Keep hot in the oven while preparing biscuits.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. If you don't have shortening, butter or margarine can be used as a substitute. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free baking mix instead of Bisquick. You can also add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tuna casserole warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside garlic bread. This dish also makes a hearty lunch option the next day, keeping the flavors intact.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover tuna casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You may want to cover it with foil to prevent the top from browning too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Casserole With Cheese Swirls contains roughly 951 calories, with 21g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 77g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1087mg per serving (47% 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 tuna?
Yes, fresh tuna can be used, but it will require cooking beforehand. Poach or grill the fresh tuna until cooked through, then flake it into the casserole mixture. This will add a rich flavor and texture, making it even more delightful in your dish.
What can I use instead of cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version using a roux with milk and seasonings. This will maintain the creamy consistency while adding a different flavor profile to your casserole.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like corn, bell peppers, or even spinach. Just ensure they are cooked before adding them to the casserole to avoid excess moisture, which could affect the casserole's texture.
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).