Tuna Stroganoff Casserole is a delightful dish that perfectly blends comfort food with a quick meal solution. It features a creamy and flavorful sauce that envelops tender pasta, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or an inviting dish to share with family and friends. Packed with savory tuna and topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer, this casserole is sure to please any palate.
Why We Love This Tuna Stroganoff Casserole Recipe
Tuna Stroganoff Casserole is not just another ordinary dish; it holds a special place in our hearts and kitchens. It offers a fantastic combination of convenience and taste, especially for those who appreciate quick, satisfying meals. The use of pantry staples like canned tuna, cream of celery soup, and simple spices makes it an accessible recipe for cooks of all skill levels. Additionally, the ability to personalize the casserole with your favorite ingredients ensures that it can be a unique creation every time you make it. Plus, its creamy texture and cheesy layers provide a comforting warmth that warms your soul, making it a go-to option for families and gatherings.
Ingredients about Tuna Stroganoff Casserole
To create this delicious Tuna Stroganoff Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup
- 1 cup grated Cheddar cheese
- 1 (7 ounce) can tuna, drained
- 0.75 cup milk
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 pound cooked pasta
- 1.5 cups bread crumbs, or to taste
How to Make Tuna Stroganoff Casserole Directions
Making Tuna Stroganoff Casserole is a straightforward process that packs a lot of flavor. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). As the oven warms up, grab a trusty 9×5 inch loaf pan, which is perfect for this recipe.
In the loaf pan, combine the condensed cream of celery soup with the rich Cheddar cheese, drained tuna, and milk. Add in the tangy sour cream and mayonnaise for a creamy texture. Toss in the chopped parsley for a fresh herbaceous note and the lemon juice to brighten the dish. Season this comforting mixture with salt and black pepper, then stir thoroughly until everything is well combined.
Next, it’s time to bring in the star of the dish—joined by the creamy sauce, you’ll fold in the cooked pasta until every strand is coated in the delightful tuna mixture. Don’t forget to take a moment and marvel at the colorful textures and aromas that are starting to take shape!
Once you’ve ensured that the pasta is thoroughly coated, it’s time to add a crispy finish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs generously over the top of the casserole. This layer will provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
Carefully place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it cooks; you want the breadcrumbs to turn a luscious golden brown and for the sauce to become bubbly. The aroma of the casserole wafting through your kitchen will make it hard to wait!
How to Serve Tuna Stroganoff Casserole
When your Tuna Stroganoff Casserole is done baking, the excitement in your kitchen will be palpable. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. This will help it set a bit, ensuring that when you scoop out servings, they hold their shape nicely.
Scoop out a generous portion onto each plate or serve it right from the pan for a cozy family meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables, adding a perfect balance of flavors and nutrients to your meal. If you’d like to elevate your presentation, you can garnish individual servings with a sprinkle of additional parsley for that fresh, inviting touch.
Tuna Stroganoff Casserole can also be enjoyed as leftovers the next day. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it just as delicious, if not more so, the second time around.
Expert Tips: Tuna Stroganoff Casserole
- Ensure that you drain the tuna well; excess liquid can make your casserole too watery. Pat it down with a paper towel for the best results.
- Make the dish your own! Feel free to incorporate extra vegetables such as peas, corn, or mushrooms for added depth and nutrition; they pair perfectly with the flavors of the casserole.
- If you want to add a bit of a kick, consider mixing in a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to spice things up.
- For a lighter version of the casserole, opt for Greek yogurt in place of sour cream or mayonnaise. This swap will reduce the dish’s richness while still maintaining a creamy texture.
- Monitor your breadcrumbs as they bake; if they start to brown too quickly, you can cover the casserole with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the sauce continues to bubble.
How to Store Tuna Stroganoff Casserole
Once you have enjoyed your Tuna Stroganoff Casserole, storing the leftovers is simple. Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through.
If you find yourself with an abundance of casserole, you can also freeze it. Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When you are ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variation of Tuna Stroganoff Casserole
Tuna Stroganoff Casserole is incredibly versatile, and there are countless ways to switch up the recipe to suit your taste. Here are a few creative variations you might consider:
- Cheesy Tuna and Broccoli: Add steamed broccoli florets for a hearty dose of vegetables. This variation not only boosts nutrients but also adds a lovely pop of color.
- Spicy Tuna Casserole: Incorporate diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese in place of the Cheddar for a spicier flavor profile that will wake up your taste buds.
- Mediterranean Twist: Swap out the parsley for fresh basil or oregano, and add sun-dried tomatoes and olives. This will give your casserole an entirely new flavor that transports you to the Mediterranean.
- Creamy Mushroom Variation: Sauté sliced mushrooms in a pan and add them to the mixture for an earthy, rich flavor that complements the tuna beautifully.
- Herb-Infused Casserole: Experiment with different herbs like dill or thyme for a distinct flavor contrast that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
FAQ
What is Tuna Stroganoff Casserole?
Tuna Stroganoff Casserole is a comforting baked dish made with pasta, creamy sauce, tuna, and topped with breadcrumbs that become crispy as it bakes.
How long does it take to bake Tuna Stroganoff Casserole?
It typically takes about 45 minutes to bake Tuna Stroganoff Casserole at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until the sauce is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Can I freeze Tuna Stroganoff Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze Tuna Stroganoff Casserole for up to 2-3 months. Just ensure it’s tightly wrapped and stored in an airtight container.
What type of pasta is best for Tuna Stroganoff Casserole?
You can use any type of pasta you enjoy! Popular options include egg noodles, rotini, or shells, as they hold the sauce well.
Can I customize the ingredients in Tuna Stroganoff Casserole?
Yes! This casserole is highly adaptable. You can add vegetables, herbs, or spices to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Tuna Stroganoff Casserole
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 1 can 10.75 ounce can condensed cream of celery soup Base of the creamy sauce
- 1 cup grated Cheddar cheese Cheese adds flavor and creaminess
- 1 can 7 ounce can tuna, drained Use good quality canned tuna for best results
- 0.75 cup milk For thinning the sauce
- 0.5 cup sour cream Adds creaminess
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise For additional creaminess
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley Fresh herb for flavor
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Adds brightness to the dish
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 pound cooked pasta Any type of pasta works well
- 1.5 cups bread crumbs For topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
- In a 9x5 inch loaf pan, combine the condensed cream of celery soup, grated Cheddar cheese, drained tuna, and milk.
- Add sour cream and mayonnaise, followed by chopped parsley and lemon juice. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Stir thoroughly until everything is well combined.
- Fold in the cooked pasta until every strand is coated in the tuna mixture.
Baking
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs generously over the top of the casserole.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
Serving
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to help it set.
- Scoop out portions onto plates or serve directly from the pan. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
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