Are you a comfort food lover looking for a delicious and easy meal to satisfy your cravings? Look no further than tuna casserole! This classic dish has been a staple in many households for decades, and for good reason. With its creamy sauce, tender tuna, and comforting noodles or rice, it’s the perfect recipe to cozy up with on a chilly evening.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 different takes on the classic tuna casserole recipe, each one bursting with flavor and creativity. From classic comfort food recipes to healthier twists and unique flavor combinations, there’s something for everyone in this list. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick and easy meal, or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, we’ve got you covered.
So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to dive into the world of creamy tuna casseroles!
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole: A comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups of milk
– 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup of butter, softened
– 1 cup of crushed crackers (Ritz or saltines work well)
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, milk, peas and carrots, butter, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the tuna mixture and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with crushed crackers and shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Tuna and Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the simplicity of tuna salad with the comfort of creamy cheese and savory rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, tuna, mayonnaise, onion, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Healthy Tuna Casserole with Whole Wheat Pasta
A nutritious and satisfying casserole that combines the omega-3 benefits of tuna with the fiber-rich goodness of whole wheat pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz whole wheat pasta
– 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup low-fat milk
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine tuna, frozen vegetables, soup, milk, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add cooked pasta to the tuna mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Tuna Casserole with Jalapeños
A twist on a classic comfort food, this Spicy Tuna Casserole with Jalapeños combines the freshness of tuna with the heat of jalapeños in a creamy, cheesy dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup of pasta of your choice
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and sliced
– 1 cup of cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and jalapeños; cook until softened.
4. Stir in tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the tuna mixture, then transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Tuna and Mushroom Casserole
A comforting, creamy casserole that combines the flavors of tuna, mushrooms, and pasta in a satisfying and easy-to-make dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (12 oz) tuna in water, drained
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic until tender.
4. Add tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir until combined.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tuna mixture, and shredded cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Crunchy Potato Topping
A classic comfort food recipe that combines the flavors of tuna, pasta, and cheese with a crispy potato topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups of milk
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup of butter, melted
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Mix well.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the tuna mixture and stir until combined.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Pour in the tuna casserole mixture.
6. For the potato topping, toss sliced potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. Arrange on top of the casserole in a single layer.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tuna and Broccoli Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that’s quick, easy, and packed with protein and veggies. This casserole is a great option for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook broccoli and onion in boiling water until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, mix tuna, milk, cream of mushroom soup, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine cooked broccoli mixture, tuna mixture, and shredded cheese.
5. Pour into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gluten-Free Tuna Casserole
A classic comfort food gets a gluten-free makeover! This tuna casserole is a simple and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of gluten-free tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup of cooked white rice
– 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup of gluten-free cream of mushroom soup
– 1/4 cup of milk
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (gluten-free)
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, cooked rice, peas and carrots, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and olive oil. Mix well until combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and add chopped parsley.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Peas and Carrots
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and packed with protein, veggies, and creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, peas and carrots, rice, milk, mayonnaise, and parsley.
3. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
4. Pour the tuna mixture into the prepared dish.
5. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is lightly golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with a Parmesan Crust
A classic comfort food recipe gets a crunchy upgrade with a flavorful Parmesan crust. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup macaroni
– 2 cups frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, peas and carrots, milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, butter, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the tuna mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. In a small bowl, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna and Cornbread Casserole
This Tuna and Cornbread Casserole is a creative take on the classic tuna noodle casserole, featuring the comfort of cornbread instead of noodles. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, corn kernels, and paprika.
3. In a separate bowl, prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions using milk and melted butter.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and add the tuna mixture.
5. Top with the prepared cornbread mixture.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Tuna Casserole with a Twist of Lemon
A classic tuna casserole gets a refreshing boost from the brightness of lemon and the creaminess of Greek yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as penne or macaroni)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, pasta, mayonnaise, parsley, and cheddar cheese. Mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt and lemon juice until smooth.
4. Add the yogurt mixture to the tuna mixture and mix until combined.
5. Stir in frozen peas and carrots.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Spinach and Artichokes
This hearty casserole combines the rich flavors of tuna, spinach, artichokes, and cream to create a satisfying and comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, spinach, artichoke hearts, cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with a Cheesy Breadcrumb Topping
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and pleases the whole family. This tuna casserole is a satisfying combination of canned tuna, pasta, and creamy sauce topped with a crunchy cheesy breadcrumb mixture.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups of milk
– 1 cup of cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of butter, melted
– 1 cup of breadcrumb topping (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Breadcrumb Topping:
– 1 cup of breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon of butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pot, combine tuna, milk, cream of mushroom soup, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
4. Combine cooked pasta and tuna mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer the casserole mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with breadcrumb topping and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with a Creamy Alfredo Sauce
A classic comfort food recipe that combines the flavors of tuna, pasta, and rich Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (12 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup of cooked pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly until smooth and creamy.
5. Remove from heat; stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. In a separate mixing bowl, combine tuna and cooked pasta. Add the Alfredo sauce and mix well.
7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with a Crispy Onion Topping
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This tuna casserole gets a crunchy upgrade with a crispy onion topping, perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 1 cup of cooked pasta (macaroni or elbow work well)
– 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of butter
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, pasta, peas and carrots, milk, and shredded cheese. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. For the crispy onion topping, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown (about 10-12 minutes).
6. Sprinkle cooked onions on top of the casserole.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with a Hint of Garlic
This classic comfort food recipe gets a boost from the savory flavor of garlic, making it a perfect addition to any meal. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll be enjoying this satisfying casserole in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup of cooked macaroni
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1/4 cup of butter, melted
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, macaroni, milk, melted butter, garlic, and peas and carrots. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with a Creamy Dill Sauce
Tuna Casserole with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe
Elevate a classic tuna casserole with the addition of a tangy and creamy dill sauce, making this dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 1 cup of pasta of your choice (e.g., elbow macaroni, shells)
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1/2 cup of cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 teaspoon of dried dill weed
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, butter, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and dried dill weed. Mix well.
4. Add cooked pasta to the tuna mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to dive into the world of comfort food with these 18 creamy tuna casserole recipes! From classic tuna noodle casseroles to healthier options with whole wheat pasta, and even gluten-free variations, there’s something for everyone. Spice things up with spicy tuna and jalapeños or add some crunch with a potato topping. And if you’re looking for a twist, try a parmesan crust or a creamy alfredo sauce. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or a little adventurous, these tuna casserole recipes have got you covered.
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