tuna and pasta casserole recipe

tuna and pasta casserole recipe

The Best tuna and pasta casserole recipe

I’m so excited to share this classic tuna and pasta casserole recipe with you all. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours too. The combination of tender pasta, savory tuna, and creamy sauce is a match made in heaven.

My kids love helping me prepare this meal, and it’s always a hit when we have family gatherings or potlucks. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. The best part?

It’s a healthy option too – the tuna provides a good source of protein, while the pasta and vegetables add fiber and nutrients. I like to serve this dish with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a well-rounded meal. One of the key techniques to making this casserole successful is to cook the pasta al dente before mixing it with the tuna and sauce.

This helps prevent the pasta from becoming mushy or overcooked. Another tip is to use high-quality canned tuna that’s low in mercury and BPA-free. This ensures that the dish tastes fresh and not fishy at all.

I also like to add some chopped veggies like bell peppers or carrots to give it an extra burst of flavor. Overall, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special event with friends and family.

Tuna and Pasta Casserole

Tuna and Pasta Casserole

4.7 from 1644 votes

This comforting casserole combines pasta, tuna, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It is a budget-friendly dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Casserole

12 oz pasta shapes
2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in oil
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
3Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
4Drain pasta in a colander and set aside.
5In a mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
6Mix well until smooth.
7Drain tuna and add it to the soup mixture.
8Stir in the cooked pasta until well coated.
9Transfer the pasta and tuna mixture to a greased baking dish.
10Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
11In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 tbsp olive oil.
12Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
13Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
14Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
15This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve.
16Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Baking dish
Mixing bowl
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add vegetables like peas or spinach to make it more nutritious.

Watch Video Of How Tuna and Pasta Casserole Works

This tuna and pasta casserole recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special event with friends and family. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Simply refrigerate or freeze leftovers for later use, and reheat when needed.

This dish is perfect for busy families like mine who need quick meals that are both delicious and nutritious.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Tuna and Pasta Casserole

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

A: For this recipe, I recommend using penne or fusilli pasta as they hold onto the sauce well. You can also use other short-shaped pasta like macaroni or rotini if you prefer.

Q: Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

A: While fresh tuna is delicious, it’s not always feasible to use it in this recipe. Canned tuna is a convenient and affordable alternative that works just as well.

Q: How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry?

A: To avoid a dry casserole, make sure to mix the pasta with enough sauce before adding the tuna and cheese. You can also add some extra liquid like milk or water if needed.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the regular pasta with gluten-free alternatives like rice-based or quinoa-based pasta.

Q: Can I store leftovers in the refrigerator?

A: Yes, you can store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently before serving.

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