Get ready to dive into a world of comfort food with these 18 creamy tuna casserole recipes from Food Network favorites! Tuna casserole, a classic American dish, has been a staple in many households for decades. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s no wonder why this recipe continues to be a fan favorite. From traditional takes to creative twists, we’ve gathered the most mouthwatering tuna casserole recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve at your next family gathering, these creamy tuna casserole recipes have got you covered. With ingredients like canned tuna, pasta, and cream, these dishes are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. So go ahead, get creative with your tuna casserole game, and discover a whole new world of flavors and textures!
Read on for the complete list of 18 creamy tuna casserole recipes that will become your new go-to’s.
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole with Crunchy Topping
A comforting and satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of tuna, noodles, and creamy sauce topped with a crunchy layer of buttered breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 8 oz egg noodles
– 2 cups of milk
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of butter
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup of buttered breadcrumbs (see topping instructions)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, milk, cheddar cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
4. Add cooked noodles to the tuna mixture and stir until coated.
5. Pour the casserole mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with buttered breadcrumbs (see topping instructions).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Topping:
1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs and stir until crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
3. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Tuna Casserole with Peas and Carrots
This comforting casserole is a great way to get your daily dose of protein, veggies, and cheese all in one delicious dish. With its creamy tuna filling, crunchy carrots, and sweet peas, it’s a recipe that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 1 cup of cooked pasta
– 1 cup of frozen peas
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of milk
– 1 tablespoon of butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a separate pan, sauté chopped carrots in butter until tender. Add frozen peas and cook until thawed.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine tuna, cooked pasta, carrot-pea mixture, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Transfer the tuna mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with grated cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy One-Pot Tuna Casserole
A comforting and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, with the added bonus of minimal cleanup.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup of pasta (such as macaroni or shells)
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of milk
– 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in tuna, milk, peas and carrots, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked pasta to the pot and stir until well combined.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked Tuna Casserole with Breadcrumbs
This classic tuna casserole is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, flaky tuna, and crunchy breadcrumbs, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup of cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon of butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup of frozen peas and carrots
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, soup, milk, and cheese. Mix well.
3. Add the breadcrumbs and butter to the mixture and stir until combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with frozen peas and carrots.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Healthy Whole Wheat Tuna Casserole
A deliciously simple twist on a classic comfort food dish, this healthy whole wheat tuna casserole is packed with protein and fiber. Made with wholesome ingredients, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup of whole wheat pasta
– 2 cups of mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and green beans)
– 1/4 cup of reduced-fat cream cheese
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (low-fat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook whole wheat pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, sauté mixed vegetables with olive oil until tender.
4. Combine cooked tuna, cream cheese, and sautéed vegetables in a large bowl.
5. Add cooked pasta and stir well.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese (low-fat).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Tuna Casserole with Jalapeños
Spicy Tuna Casserole with Jalapeños Recipe
This spicy tuna casserole is a twist on the classic seafood dish, adding a kick of heat from jalapeños. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed veggies (peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 medium jalapeños, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, rice, mixed veggies, jalapeños, mayonnaise, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. 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 the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serve warm and enjoy!
Creamy Mushroom and Tuna Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the rich flavors of sautéed mushrooms, tuna, and a creamy sauce with the convenience of a one-dish meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup crushed crackers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook the tuna, mushrooms, onion, and garlic in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine the cooked tuna mixture with the creamy sauce and stir well.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and crushed crackers.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Egg Noodles and Cheddar
This creamy tuna casserole is a staple comfort food dish that’s easy to make and satisfyingly filling. With the addition of egg noodles and cheddar cheese, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 8 oz egg noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine tuna, mixed vegetables, milk, and butter. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is warm and creamy.
4. Combine cooked egg noodles, tuna mixture, and cheddar cheese in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Gluten-Free Tuna Casserole with Almond Flour Topping
A flavorful and nutritious twist on the classic tuna casserole, this gluten-free version uses almond flour to create a crispy topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup of gluten-free pasta, cooked and set aside
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup of chopped onion
– 1/4 cup of chopped celery
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/4 cup of almond flour
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, pasta, mayonnaise, onion, celery, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. In a small bowl, mix together almond flour and olive oil until crumbly.
5. Sprinkle the almond flour topping evenly over the tuna casserole.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Crispy Fried Onions
A classic comfort food recipe that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This tuna casserole gets a satisfying crunch from crispy fried onions on top.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup of cooked pasta (such as macaroni or elbow)
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of butter, melted
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine tuna, pasta, milk, and shredded cheese. Heat over low until cheese is melted and mixture is smooth.
3. Stir in flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour tuna mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Melt butter and spread evenly on top of the casserole.
6. Sprinkle crispy fried onions (see note) over the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until onions are golden brown.
Note: To make crispy fried onions, heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high. Add thinly sliced onions and cook until they’re golden brown and crispy, stirring occasionally. Drain on paper towels before using.
Tuna and Broccoli Casserole with Parmesan
This classic comfort food recipe combines the flavors of tuna, broccoli, and parmesan cheese for a satisfying and easy-to-make casserole. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté broccoli in olive oil until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine tuna, milk, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add the cooked broccoli to the tuna mixture and stir.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern-Style Tuna Casserole with Cornbread Crust
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of tuna, cream of mushroom soup, and cornbread for a comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 1 cup of cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1/4 cup of chopped onion
– 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup of butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, onion, peas and carrots, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix cornbread mix with melted butter until crumbly.
5. Spread the cornbread mixture evenly over the tuna casserole.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Spinach and Artichokes
Tasty Tuna Casserole with Spinach and Artichokes: A Delicious Twist on a Classic!
This recipe combines the creamy richness of artichoke hearts, the earthy taste of spinach, and the protein-packed goodness of tuna, all wrapped up in a comforting casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated, chopped
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 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, milk, cream of mushroom soup, and shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Mix well until combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Drizzle melted butter evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Stovetop Tuna Casserole
Quick Stovetop Tuna Casserole Recipe
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this easy and satisfying stovetop casserole, featuring tuna, pasta, and a blend of savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (12 oz) tuna in water, drained
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as macaroni or penne)
– 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Stir in the cooked pasta, frozen vegetables, and tuna.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of casserole and continue cooking for an additional minute, or until melted.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping
This creamy tuna casserole is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner or lunch. With the added crunch of Ritz crackers, it’s a twist on the classic recipe that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup of milk
– 1/2 cup of cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of Ritz crackers, crushed
– 1/4 cup of butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, milk, cream of mushroom soup, and shredded cheese. Mix well until combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the crackers.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Dill and Lemon Zest
This creamy tuna casserole gets a refreshing boost from the addition of fresh dill and lemon zest, making it perfect for a light and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 1 cup of cooked pasta (such as macaroni or fusilli)
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon of lemon zest
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, pasta, mayonnaise, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
5. Pour in milk and mix until combined.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Peas and Celery
This classic comfort food recipe is a simple and satisfying meal that combines the flavors of tuna, peas, celery, and pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups frozen peas
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté diced celery in butter until tender.
4. Add flaked tuna, peas, milk, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until combined.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, tuna mixture, and shredded cheese in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Bacon and Peppers
Elevate your tuna casserole game with the addition of crispy bacon and sweet peppers. This hearty, comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 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.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and bell peppers until tender.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, combine tuna, milk, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon.
4. Add the cooked vegetables to the tuna mixture and stir well.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to dive into a world of creamy, delicious tuna casserole recipes! Food Network has gathered 18 of its favorite tuna casseroles that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic and cheesy to spicy and healthy, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Try your hand at Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole with Crunchy Topping, Cheesy Tuna Casserole with Peas and Carrots, or one of the many other mouth-watering options. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a foodie seeking inspiration for a special occasion, these tuna casserole recipes are sure to become new favorites.
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