Macaroni Tuna Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that brings together tender pasta, flavorful tuna, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. This casserole is a nostalgic favorite, offering a satisfying blend of textures and tastes that’s perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. The combination of al dente macaroni and hearty tuna is enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, then topped with a golden, crunchy layer of breadcrumbs and melted cheese. Simple to prepare and sure to please, this dish is a go-to for busy weeknights when you need something delicious and comforting on the table.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cans (5 ounces each) tuna, drained and flaked
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped celery (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the Macaroni:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the drained tuna, frozen peas, celery, and onion if using. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce mixture and stir until the pasta is evenly coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter until evenly coated. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, followed by the breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake:
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
This Macaroni Tuna Casserole is a comforting, satisfying dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. Its creamy, cheesy goodness combined with tender pasta and tuna makes it a beloved dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
