Tuna Herb Casserole
A comforting tuna herb casserole featuring tender pasta, melted cheese, and aromatic herbs, perfect for family dinners and quick weeknight meals with a savory tomato flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni; drain and set aside.
- Melt butter; sauté onion until translucent.
- Stir in tomato soup and cook for a few minutes.
- Gradually blend in water; stir in thyme, tarragon, and tuna.
- Cook over low heat for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat.
- Add 1/4 cup grated cheese and stir until melted.
- Add cooked macaroni and mix well.
- Pour mixture into a casserole dish.
- Top with remaining cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for about 15 to 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the casserole mixture. If you're short on time, you can substitute the macaroni with other pasta shapes like shells or penne. Experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil if thyme and tarragon aren't available. This dish also works well with other protein options; try adding shrimp for a twist on classic seafood recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Tuna Herb Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For added flavor, serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top. It can also be accompanied by crusty bread for a heartier dinner. Consider exploring more American recipes to complement this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be sure to cover them to keep moisture in.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Herb Casserole contains roughly 1145 calories, with 9g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 106g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (86% of the Daily Value), iron (50% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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, you can use fresh tuna, but make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the casserole. Fresh tuna will need to be seared or poached first, then flaked into the mixture. This will give a wonderful texture and flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
How can I make this casserole vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the tuna and replace it with cooked vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can also add a can of chickpeas for protein. The recipe will still be delicious and satisfying without the seafood.
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).