Easy Tuna Casserole: A Perfect Meal for Busy Weeknights
Welcome to my kitchen, fellow foodies! As a chef specializing in Southern-style cuisine, I am thrilled to share with you my all-time favorite recipe for a classic southern tuna casserole. This old-fashioned dish perfectly blends the warm and comforting flavors of cheesy pasta, bold tuna, and colorful veggies into one delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
In our fast-paced world, it is easy to rely on convenience foods that lack quality and homemade touch. But with this easy-to-follow recipe, you can make your own version of this traditional casserole that will bring back nostalgic memories and satisfy your hunger in no time.
This southern sassy mama has been cooking up a storm for years, and I have tried dozens of variations but keep coming back to this recipe. Trust me when I say that this dish has never failed me or my guests. So, let’s get started on making this quick and easy recipe a staple in your kitchen too. Get ready to enjoy some delicious comfort food made from scratch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Southern Tuna Casserole Recipe
Are you in search of a comforting meal that’s easy and hearty? Look no further, dear reader. This Southern Tuna Casserole recipe is bound to become a household favorite.
Firstly, this casserole is packed with fresh and flavorful ingredients that will leave your taste buds dancing. Crunchy celery, sweet bell pepper, tender English peas all combined with creamy mushroom soup and gooey cheddar cheese make for an unbeatable combination.
Secondly, it’s the perfect meal to feed a crowd or prepare ahead of time for a weeknight dinner. The easy recipe doesn’t require any fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. All you need are basic pantry staples like noodles, canned tuna, and condensed cream of mushroom soup.
But most importantly, this classic tuna noodle casserole brings back memories of mom’s home cooking or grandma’s old-fashioned recipes – but with a modern twist! It’s equal parts nostalgia and innovation. And nothing beats the old-fashioned comfort of an easy tuna casserole on a cold winter day.
In conclusion, this dish will not disappoint – it’s easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and incredibly tasty. Whether you’re looking to bring back fond memories or create new ones at your dining table, the Southern Tuna Casserole recipe is a must-try. So go ahead and give it a go – your stomach (and family) will thank you!
Ingredient List
Before getting started on any recipe, ensure that you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Below, I’ve detailed all of the ingredients you will need to make this classic Southern Tuna Casserole.
Required Ingredients:
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) of canned tuna in water
- 1/2 cup of celery, diced
- 1/4 cup of green bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup of onion, diced
- 1 1/2 cups of cooked egg noodles (about 3 cups uncooked)
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) of cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1/2 cup of frozen English peas
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather these standard ingredients from your local grocery store or use what’s already in your pantry and fridge. Since this dish is a casserole, I recommend using a 9 x 13 inch baking dish for ultimate results. Remember that these measurements serve as a base suggestion and should be adjusted according to your own taste preferences.
The Recipe How-To
Now, it’s time to take action and bring this southern-style Tuna Casserole recipe to life.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need:
– 1 package (12 oz) spaghetti
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna fish, drained
– 1 cup celery, chopped
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1/2 cup English peas
– 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Now that we have all the ingredients, let’s get cooking!
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F
2. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, diced onion, chopped celery, English peas, and chopped bell pepper.
4. Add in the cooked spaghetti noodles and drained tuna fish. Mix everything well.
5. Grease a large casserole dish with cooking spray and pour the mixture into it.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake in preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
8. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Congratulations! You have successfully made this southern-style Tuna Casserole recipe! Enjoy with your loved ones and don’t hesitate to customize it according to your preference using our suggested substitution section below.
Substitutions and Variations
Looking for ways to put your own twist on this classic southern-style Tuna Casserole? There are plenty of substitutions and variations that you can make without compromising the dish’s delicate balance of flavors.
For example, if you’re not a fan of tuna, you can use canned salmon or even canned chicken as a substitute. If you want to add some variation to your veggie mix, try swapping the English peas or celery for mushrooms, carrots, or green beans. Want to sneak in some more veggies? Add some chopped spinach or artichokes for an extra burst of nutrients.
You can also get creative with the cheese selection by using smoked gouda, fontina, or a blend of different cheeses instead of cheddar. In place of spaghetti noodles, try egg noodles, penne pasta or even macaroni for a twist on this classic recipe.
Another way to take this recipe up a notch is to add some delicious toppings like crushed butter crackers or crumbled potato chips for added crunchiness.
If you’re looking for something more indulgent, swap out the cream of mushroom soup for homemade alfredo sauce with a dash of Cajun seasoning for added Southern flair.
With so many substitutions and variations possible, there’s no limit to the possibilities when making this iconic comfort food. Let your inner Southern Sassy Mama shine and experiment with these ideas to create your own personalized and tasty version of this easy and quick Tuna Casserole.
Serving and Pairing
Now that your cheesy tuna noodle casserole is fresh out of the oven, it’s time to take a moment and appreciate the beautiful masterpiece you’ve created. This southern classic is more than just comfort food – it’s a dish that will fill you up and leave you feeling completely satisfied.
When it comes to serving this crowd-pleaser, I recommend pairing it with a side salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or a simple roasted vegetable medley. The freshness of these sides complements the richness of the casserole perfectly.
If you’re planning on bringing this dish to your next potluck, consider serving it alongside some lightly salted kettle chips or crusty bread. The crisp texture of these options can give each bite an extra layer of satisfaction.
For those who prefer a drink pairing, opt for a light white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay. The acidity in the wine will help cut through the richness of the cheese and cream mushroom soup.
Overall, this recipe is versatile enough to be paired with many different side dishes and beverages. Whether you’re serving it at your next family gathering or enjoying it on a cozy evening in, make sure to savor every bite!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
When it comes to comfort food like this Southern Tuna Casserole, having leftovers can be just as good as enjoying the dish fresh out of the oven. That’s why I always make sure to have some on hand for the next day’s lunch or dinner.
To make ahead, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This is a great option if you’re hosting a party or need to save some time on a busy weeknight.
If you have any leftovers or plan to store the casserole for later, it is important to properly wrap and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help prevent any bacteria from growing and spoiling your meal before you have a chance to enjoy it again.
When reheating, you can either microwave individual portions or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes until heated through. To preserve its texture, I recommend reheating slowly and covering with foil to maintain moisture.
It’s important to note that while this casserole can last in the fridge for up to four days, it is best when consumed within three days after it has been made. However, if you need to freeze leftovers, be sure to remove them from the original baking dish and store them in a freezer-safe container or bag. The casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
With these tips on making ahead, storing, and reheating your Southern Tuna Casserole, you can enjoy this comforting classic any time you want – whether fresh from the oven or reheated as leftovers!
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to cooking, the little things can make all the difference. Here are a few tips to ensure that your Southern Tuna Casserole is perfect every time:
First and foremost, make sure to cook your noodles al dente. We want them to have some texture and not be overcooked so that they will hold up in the casserole.
Next, use fresh vegetables if you can. While canned veggies are convenient, using freshly chopped celery, bell pepper and English peas will add a pop of color and flavor to your casserole.
When making the tuna mixture, be sure to drain the tuna water and flake the tuna meat into small pieces. Also, mix all of your casserole ingredients (12 oz cream of mushroom soup, 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup, 1 cup milk, 1/4 cup unsalted butter, 1 diced onion, 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese) together in a large bowl before adding it to the cooked noodles.
If you’re feeling a bit sassy like Southern Mama from YouTube, try adding some homemade alfredo sauce or even potato chips to your casserole for a little crunch.
Finally, let your casserole cool for at least 10-15 minutes after baking so that it sets up nicely and doesn’t fall apart when you dish it out.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to create the tastiest and most satisfying Southern Tuna Casserole recipe that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Old-Fashioned Southern Tuna Casserole recipe is an absolute must-try for any dinner table. It’s a versatile, easy-to-make dish that serves as the perfect comfort food after a long day at work. With its cheesy noodle and creamy mushroom soup base, paired with fresh veggies and seasoned tuna, this dish will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to share with friends and family, this recipe has got you covered!
So go ahead, grab your ingredients and try out this easy Southern Tuna Casserole recipe! It’s sure to become one of your favorite go-to classics. And don’t forget to share it with others – after all, the joy of cooking is meant to be shared with those around us. Thank you for joining me in this culinary journey today!
Southern Tuna Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup cheddar cheese soup
- 2 cups tuna
- 6 ounces cheese
- 1 bell pepper, sauteed with 1/2 onion
- 1 cup English pea (optional)
- 1/2 cup celery, sauteed (optional)
Instructions
- Boil spaghetti. Saute pepper, onion, and celery. Place cooked spaghetti in casserole dish. Pour soup over spaghetti and mix. Mix remaining ingredients with spaghetti and tuna. Sprinkle top with cheese. Bake at 350 for about 30 minutes.
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