Tuna Macaroni Bake
A comforting tuna macaroni bake with melted American cheese and a creamy mustard sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering hearty flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together and turn into a greased 6 x 10-inch baking dish.
- Bake in a 375°F oven until firm and light brown, about 1 hour.
- Cut into squares and top each with catsup or chili sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onion before mixing it into the dish. If you don't have evaporated milk, you can substitute with a mix of regular milk and heavy cream. For a twist, add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or peas. This recipe is versatile, easily fitting into both macaroni salad or casserole categories.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tuna Macaroni Bake with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or coleslaw. For a delightful finish, consider topping each serving with catsup or chili sauce, as suggested in the recipe.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Macaroni Bake contains roughly 489 calories, with 10g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (37% of the Daily Value), iron (33% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1447mg per serving (63% 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 a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute American cheese with cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the melting qualities may vary slightly, impacting the final texture of the dish.
What can I substitute for tuna?
If you prefer not to use tuna, shredded cooked chicken or canned salmon can work well in this recipe. Both options will complement the macaroni and maintain the dish's overall texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you're ready to bake. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking for the best results.
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).