Are you tired of the same old boring dinner routine? Look no further! Tuna casserole is a classic comfort food dish that never goes out of style. With its creamy sauce, tender tuna, and crunchy topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. But why settle for just one recipe when you can have 20?
In this article, we’ll be sharing our favorite Food Network-inspired tuna casserole recipes that are sure to spice up your mealtime routine. From classic noodle casseroles to creative twists with quinoa and cauliflower rice, we’ve got a recipe for every palate and dietary preference.
Whether you’re a busy parent looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a foodie searching for new inspiration, these 20 delicious tuna casserole recipes are sure to become your new go-to. So grab your apron and get ready to dive into the wonderful world of tuna casserole!
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
A comforting, easy-to-make casserole that combines canned tuna with noodles and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup canned 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 macaroni according to package instructions; drain.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, peas and carrots, butter, milk, cream of mushroom soup, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Tuna and Pea Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the richness of tuna with the sweetness of peas, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup of frozen peas
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of milk
– 1/2 cup of cream
– 1 tablespoon of butter
– 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the tuna, peas, milk, cream, butter, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with grated cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Tuna Rice Casserole
A comforting and satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of tuna, cheese, and rice in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, tuna, cheddar cheese, and parsley.
3. In a separate bowl, mix milk and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and smooth out the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Crunchy Topping
This classic comfort food recipe combines canned tuna, pasta, and creamy sauce topped with a crunchy breadcrumb mixture for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups of milk
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, milk, shredded cheese, and cooked macaroni. Mix well.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Drizzle melted butter over breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Healthy Tuna and Quinoa Casserole
A nutritious and flavorful casserole that combines the protein-packed power of tuna with the wholesome goodness of quinoa. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 12 oz canned tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine quinoa, tuna, mixed vegetables, onion, parsley, olive oil, and lemon juice. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is lightly browned and heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Spinach and Mushrooms
This casserole combines the comfort of tuna noodles with the earthiness of spinach and mushrooms, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cups frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup canned cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, onion, and spinach until the vegetables are tender.
4. In a separate bowl, combine tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and cooked pasta. Stir well.
5. Add the mushroom mixture to the tuna mixture and stir again.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish; top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Tuna Casserole with Jalapeños
This spicy twist on a classic tuna casserole combines the bold flavors of jalapeños and tuna in a creamy, comforting dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup of pasta of your choice
– 2 medium-sized jalapeños, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion, garlic, and jalapeños; cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the tuna, then add the cooked pasta, milk, and shredded cheese. Mix well to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Garlic Breadcrumbs
This Tuna Casserole recipe is a simple and satisfying meal that combines the flavors of tuna, pasta, and crispy garlic breadcrumbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup garlic breadcrumbs (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Garlic Breadcrumbs:
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, milk, melted butter, and shredded cheese. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the tuna mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle garlic breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuna and Broccoli Casserole
A comforting and healthy casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this tuna and broccoli casserole combines the flavors of canned tuna, steamed broccoli, and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (12 oz) tuna in water, 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 crushed crackers (e.g., Ritz or saltines)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Steam broccoli until tender; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add tuna, milk, cream of mushroom soup, and shredded cheese. Stir until well combined.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
6. Arrange broccoli in the dish, followed by the tuna mixture.
7. Top with crushed crackers and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Sweet Corn
A comforting and flavorful twist on a classic tuna casserole, this recipe adds the sweetness of corn to create a delightful main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 1 cup of sweet corn kernels
– 1 cup of elbow macaroni
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 cup of cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the tuna in butter until heated through.
4. Add sweet corn kernels to the skillet and stir until combined with the tuna.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine milk and cheddar cheese; heat until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, tuna-corn mixture, and cheese sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with breadcrumbs and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gluten-Free Tuna Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe, reimagined with gluten-free goodness! This tuna casserole is a simple and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained)
– 1 cup of gluten-free pasta
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup of chopped onion
– 1/4 cup of chopped bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (gluten-free)
– 1/4 cup of gluten-free breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, mayonnaise, onion, bell pepper, mustard, parsley, salt, and pepper.
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. Sprinkle gluten-free breadcrumbs on top of the cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Pasta Shells
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the simplicity of pasta shells with the richness of tuna, cream, and cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta shells
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 cups frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine tuna, peas and carrots, milk, cream of mushroom soup, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is smooth and warm.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange pasta shells in an even layer. Pour the tuna mixture over the pasta.
5. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and dot with butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Cheddar and Bacon
This creamy tuna casserole is a satisfying twist on the classic, featuring crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 1 cup of cooked pasta (such as macaroni)
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add crumbled bacon and cook until crispy.
4. In a separate bowl, combine tuna, cooked pasta, milk, parsley, salt, and pepper.
5. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
6. Layer the ingredients in the following order: tuna mixture, bacon, and cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Cauliflower Rice
This tuna casserole recipe gets a nutritious boost by substituting traditional rice with cauliflower “rice”. This low-carb twist is perfect for those looking to reduce their carb intake without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in tuna, cheese, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
5. Combine cooked cauliflower “rice” with the tuna mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Lemon and Dill
This refreshing twist on a classic tuna casserole combines the brightness of lemon and the freshness of dill, making it perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup of cooked pasta (such as macaroni or fusilli)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 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 garlic, dill, and lemon juice; cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Stir in flaked tuna, cooked pasta, and shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Parmesan Crust
A comforting classic gets a cheesy twist with this simple tuna casserole recipe featuring a crispy Parmesan crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup cooked macaroni
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for crust)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, macaroni, peas and carrots, milk, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. In a small bowl, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
5. Spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Zucchini Noodles
This tuna casserole recipe gets a healthy boost from zucchini noodles, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner or lunch. The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 medium zucchini
– 1 cup of cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 1/2 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the zucchini noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the tuna and cook for 2-3 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the cooked pasta, peas and carrots, cheddar cheese, and breadcrumbs to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with the zucchini noodles.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Elevate the classic tuna casserole with the rich flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup of cooked pasta (such as penne or macaroni)
– 1/2 cup of sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, peas and carrots.
3. Mix in shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup
A classic comfort food recipe that combines canned tuna, pasta, and creamy mushroom sauce. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add the cooked macaroni to the tuna mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with grated cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Herb Breadcrumbs
This satisfying casserole combines canned tuna with pasta, creamy sauce, and crunchy herb breadcrumbs for a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (12 oz) of tuna in water, drained
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups of milk
– 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of butter
– 1/2 cup of herb breadcrumbs (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a separate pot, combine milk, tuna, and butter. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is warm and well combined.
4. Combine cooked macaroni, tuna-milk mixture, and cheddar cheese in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with herb breadcrumbs and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: To make herb breadcrumbs, mix together 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.
Summary
Get inspired by Food Network’s tastiest tuna casserole recipes! From classic comfort food to healthier twists, these 20 delicious recipes are sure to please. Try the creamy combination of tuna and peas, or add some crunch with a crispy topping. Go gluten-free, or get creative with sun-dried tomatoes and zucchini noodles. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, this collection has got you covered. So go ahead, dive in, and get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of tuna casserole like never before!
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