Tuna Tetrazzini(Yields 6 Servings)
Tuna Tetrazzini is a comforting pasta dish featuring tuna, mushrooms, olives, and Parmesan, perfect for family dinners and those craving creamy, savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 1/2 c. chopped onion ⓘ
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup ⓘ
- 1 (6 oz.) can evaporated milk or light cream ⓘ
- 1/3 c. grated Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- 1 can tuna fish (6 1/2 or 9 1/4 oz.) ⓘ
- 1 (3 oz.) can broiled, sliced mushrooms, drained ⓘ
- 1/2 c. chopped ripe olives ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. minced parsley ⓘ
- 1 tsp. lemon juice ⓘ
- 6 oz. noodles, cooked and drained ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook the onion in a small amount of hot fat until tender, not brown.
- Add the condensed cream of mushroom soup, evaporated milk, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Heat and stir until well combined.
- Break the tuna fish into chunks and add to the mixture along with the sliced mushrooms, chopped olives, minced parsley, and lemon juice.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole.
- Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and paprika.
- Bake in a moderate 375°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Top with ripe olives before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using light cream instead of evaporated milk. You can also substitute the tuna with canned salmon for a different flavor. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the dish's richness. If you prefer a bit of heat, a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can be a great addition. This dish pairs beautifully with sides like a green salad or garlic bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tuna Tetrazzini hot, garnished with additional olives and fresh parsley for a pop of color. It goes well with a light green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting twist, pair it with a warm, crusty bread or a side of roasted asparagus. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions on medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Tetrazzini(Yields 6 Servings) contains roughly 299 calories, with 12g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 623mg per serving (27% 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 mushrooms instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh mushrooms. Sauté them in a little butter until they're soft before adding them to the dish. Fresh mushrooms will add a more robust flavor compared to canned, enhancing the overall taste of the casserole.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you're ready to bake, remove the covering and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the tuna and adding more vegetables, such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. You could also use a plant-based protein or chickpeas to keep it hearty, while still maintaining the creamy sauce and flavor profile.
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).