The ultimate dump-and-bake dinner- this tuna casserole is a classic recipe made easier. Made with only a few simple ingredients, you get a perfectly cheesy tuna bake in just 15 minutes.
Is there anything better than a casserole for dinner?
I think not. They are quick to assemble, and the oven takes care of all the hard work. Not only that, but they are affordable too. We make them at least once a week, and our current favorite was a Philly cheesesteak casserole but this tuna version gives it a run for its money!
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The best tuna casserole recipe
Tuna fish gets a very bad wrap, especially if it comes from a can. However, when done correctly, it’s a game changer. We grew up eating tuna often as it was one of the few proteins our family could afford, and this casserole was my mom’s way of getting us to enjoy a well balanced meal.
- It takes canned tuna to the next level. It’s not always easy to make canned tuna taste like something truly delicious. Similar to our tuna patties or croquettes, this one will be a family favorite.
- Easy and quick. As the key ingredient in this casserole recipe is tuna, it takes only a few minutes to prep it and around 15 minutes to bake.
- The perfect freezer meal. You can mix all ingredients in advance, transfer the mixture into a freezer-safe baking dish and freeze until you are ready to whip it up.
- No noodles. Most tuna casserole recipes call for noodles or pasta but not this one! It makes a fabulous low carb dinner idea.
Ingredients needed
This recipe is very cost effective and uses pantry staple ingredients. Here is what you’ll need:
- Tuna. Use canned tuna in water for a light and flaky texture.
- Mayonnaise and sour cream. These two condiments taste so much better when mixed together. Use both to provide extra creaminess for this canned tuna bake.
- Cauliflower. Adds some bulk and nutrients to the dish. This is completely optional, and you can omit if you like.
- Onion. Use finely chopped green onions for a refreshing and mild onion flavor.
- Mustard. Go with Dijon mustard for a tangy and slightly spicy flavor.
- Cheese. I use mozzarella cheese in the tuna mixture and use gruyere to top off the casserole.
- Spices. Pepper and smoked paprika used in the right amounts don’t overshadow the mild flavor of canned tuna.
How to make an easy tuna casserole
Once you prep the mixture, there really is much else to do but let the oven work its magic and reward you with a cheesy, rich, and hearty meal.
Step 1- Prepare the tuna mixture
Open a can of tuna and drain it. Flake the tuna and add it to a mixing bowl, along with the cooked cauliflower. Next, add the mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped green onion, and Dijon mustard. Add pepper and smoked paprika and salt to taste. Mix until fully combined. When all ingredients are mixed, fold in the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 2- Bake
Transfer the tuna mixture into the baking dish and top with sliced or shredded gruyere cheese.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Remove from the oven and serve warm.
Tips to make the best recipe
- Flake the tuna into larger chunks. If you flake it into very small pieces, the tuna mixture will turn into mush when you mix the canned fish with the rest of the ingredients.
- Like we do with our mac and cheese, sprinkle the casserole with a breadcrumb and butter mixture for a golden and crispy crust that will contrast beautifully with the creamy tuna mixture.
- Use a combination of different cheeses to make this tuna bake taste even better. Smoked cheddar, gouda, Asiago, and Monterey Jack will work well for this.
- Add mild heat to this tuna casserole by using pickled or fresh jalapenos. We often do this with our chicken casserole.
Flavor variations
The beauty of this casserole is just how easy it is to customize with other ingredients and flavors. Here are some ideas:
- Add pasta. This casserole doesn’t contain any noodles. You can add your favorite type of pasta to it to turn this bake into a complete dinner. Macaroni, penne, farfalle, and fusilli will all work well for this recipe. Cook the pasta al dente before mixing it with tuna.
- Add vegetables. Mushooms, peas, and canned corn are all welcome additions.
- Use canned corn. Adding a can of corn into the casserole mix doesn’t require extra time and effort. Despite that, it adds flavor and color to the bake.
Storage instructions
To store. Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and it will be good for up to 4 days.
To freeze. Once the casserole has cooled, place portions of it in a shallow container and store it in the freezer for up to 6 months.
To reheat. The best way to reheat tuna casserole is in the oven, covered with tinfoil. You can also microwave small servings of it.
What to serve with tuna casserole
Like any good casserole, you can really pair it with anything, including grains, vegetables, and salads.
Frequently asked questions
The main reason why tuna casseroles turns out dry is that you have left it in the oven for too long. The tuna used for the casserole is already cooked. You don’t need it to leave in the oven for longer than the recipe tells you.
Using eggs in tuna casserole is a matter of preference. You can chop a few hard-boiled eggs into the tuna mixture for added nutritional value and flavor.
Yes, you can add noodles to this casserole. In fact, egg noodles are one of the main ingredients of the traditional version of this popular American casserole. Cook the noodles al dente before you add them to the rest of the ingredients.
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Easy Tuna Casserole
Ingredients
- 20 ounces canned tuna in springwater
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup green onions chopped
- 2 cups cauliflower cooked and chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup gruyere cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180C/350F. Grease a large baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, add the drained tuna and flake it with a fork. Add the mayonnaise, sour cream, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, green onions, and Dijon mustard. Mix until smooth. Add the cauliflower then fold through the mozzarella cheese.
- Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish and top with gruyere cheese.
- Bake the tuna casserole for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown.
Notes
Nutrition
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I can’t wait to try this tonight for an impromptu family BBQ. We have a wide range of tastes. The most finicky being my 89 year old mother. I think everyone will love it.
Thank You for this amazing recipe. I used to make one like this 50 years ago but had forgotten how delicious tuna is in a casserole.
I felt like just eating the whole casserole myself but……………………I did use selfcontrol.
I love comfort foods that are also low carb. Thank you!
Love good recipes.
Grandson who dislikes casseroles came to me and said” I’m not going to lie I took some of the cauliflower and it was delicious “. He then said “I don’t like casseroles but this is delish. Can I have more?”