Tuna Crunch
A crunchy tuna casserole featuring Chinese noodles, creamy mushroom soup, and hearty vegetables, perfect for a comforting family meal with a satisfying texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Reserve 1/2 cup of noodles from the Chinese noodles can.
- In a 1 1/2-quart pan, combine the cream of mushroom soup, water, tuna, cashews or peanuts, chopped celery, and chopped onion.
- Bake the mixture at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Stir the casserole after baking.
- Sprinkle the reserved noodles around the edges and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in herbs like dill or parsley. You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a cream of chicken soup for a different taste. If you prefer a crunchier texture, try using fried onions instead of the Chinese noodles for garnishing. This dish is versatile; feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. It's a great way to use leftover tuna, much like in Tuna Cheese Toasties.
Serving Suggestions
This Tuna Crunch casserole pairs excellently with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside garlic bread or rice. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs or additional nuts for extra texture. It's a fantastic dish for family gatherings or as a comforting weeknight dinner, reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out, and bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, just be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Crunch contains roughly 656 calories, with 18g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (38% of the Daily Value), protein (37% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 862mg per serving (37% 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 tuna, but it will require cooking beforehand. Simply sear or poach the tuna until cooked through, then flake it into the mixture. Keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly from canned tuna, but it will add a fresh flavor to the dish.
What can I substitute for cashews or peanuts?
If you need a nut-free option, you can replace cashews or peanuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch. For those with nut allergies, consider adding extra vegetables or using crispy chickpeas as a topping instead.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated thoroughly. This makes it a great option for meal prep or for serving at gatherings.
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).