Zella'S Tuna Casserole
Zella's Tuna Casserole combines creamy mushroom soup, crunchy chow mein noodles, and tender tuna for a comforting, family-friendly dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, chopped celery, cream of mushroom soup, and milk.
- Add the large can of chow mein noodles and mix gently to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
- Optional: substitute cream of chicken soup for mushroom soup as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded cheese to the mixture before baking. If you don't have chow mein noodles, you can substitute with regular egg noodles or even cooked rice. To add more flavor, try incorporating some diced onions or bell peppers. This dish can also benefit from a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish.
Serving Suggestions
Zella's Tuna Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with garlic bread or a side of fresh fruit to balance the richness of the casserole. For added flair, consider garnishing with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika before serving.
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 (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zella'S Tuna Casserole contains roughly 332 calories, with 23g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value) and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 678mg per serving (29% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna, but it will require cooking beforehand. Sauté the fresh tuna in a bit of olive oil until cooked through, then flake it into the mixture. This can provide a fresher taste compared to canned options.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the chow mein noodles with gluten-free pasta or rice noodles. Additionally, ensure that the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free or make your own using gluten-free ingredients to keep the entire dish compliant.
Can I freeze Zella's Tuna Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. Cooked casserole can also be frozen, but may have a softer texture upon reheating.
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).