Tuna Stroganoff Casserole is a delightful dish that brings a comforting twist to the classic stroganoff recipe. This baked casserole features tender pasta enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce made with canned tuna, soup, and cheese. Ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it’s a quick yet satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Why We Love This Tuna Stroganoff Casserole Recipe
This Tuna Stroganoff Casserole stands out for several reasons. First, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The creamy texture and delightful blend of flavors create a dish that feels indulgent but doesn’t break the bank. It’s also versatile, allowing you to customize it with various seasonings and add-ins based on your preferences. Whether it’s a chilly night or a busy weekday, this casserole is the perfect go-to for a wholesome meal that warms your heart and fills your belly.
Ingredients about Tuna Stroganoff Casserole
Here’s what you need to prepare your Tuna Stroganoff Casserole. Make sure you gather the ingredients beforehand for a smooth cooking experience.
List of ingredients with measurements
- 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
Creating your Tuna Stroganoff Casserole is simple, so let’s dive into the steps to make this delicious dish.
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preparing the oven ahead of time ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and thoroughly.
- Mix the Base: Take a 9×5 inch loaf pan and begin by combining the condensed cream of celery soup and grated Cheddar cheese. Add the drained tuna into the mixture, making sure to break it into smaller pieces.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the milk, followed by the sour cream and mayonnaise. Stir everything together well so that the mixture becomes creamy and homogeneous.
- Flavor Your Mixture: Add the chopped parsley and lemon juice to the mix. These ingredients will enhance the taste and add a fresh, zesty note. Season generously with salt and ground black pepper, adjusting to your taste.
- Combine with Pasta: Fold in the cooked pasta. It’s crucial to ensure that every piece of pasta is well-coated with the creamy tuna mixture. This step is what makes the casserole truly satisfying.
- Top with Breadcrumbs: Once everything is combined, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a delightful crunch when baked.
- Bake: Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want to achieve a golden-brown topping with a bubbly sauce underneath.
- Rest Before Serving: Once done, take the casserole out of the oven and allow it to cool slightly. This makes it easier to serve without the filling spilling out.
Follow these steps, and you’ll create a fantastic Tuna Stroganoff Casserole that will impress and comfort your family or guests.
How to Serve Tuna Stroganoff Casserole
Serving your Tuna Stroganoff Casserole can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some tips to ensure that your dish is presented beautifully.
- Portioning: Use a sharp knife or spatula to cut the casserole into even squares. This presentation makes it easy for everyone to take a helping.
- Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top can brighten up the dish. You can also add a light dusting of extra cheese for an appealing look.
- Complement with Sides: This casserole is filling on its own, but you might want to serve it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables to add freshness to your meal. A light vinaigrette or lemony dressing can pair particularly well.
- Serving Temperature: Feel free to serve the casserole warm or at room temperature. Just be mindful that the flavors are at their peak when it’s freshly baked.
- Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, they can be easily reheated in the oven or microwave. Simply cover the casserole with foil if using the oven to prevent it from drying out.
With these serving tips, you can create a delightful eating experience that makes your Tuna Stroganoff Casserole not just a meal, but a moment to savor.
Expert Tips: Tuna Stroganoff Casserole
To elevate your Tuna Stroganoff Casserole and make it your own, consider these expert tips:
- Pasta Selection: While any pasta will work, consider using shells or rotini as they hold onto the sauce beautifully.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Mixing in some mozzarella or, for a sharp twist, using pepper jack cheese can add interesting depth to the flavor profile.
- Herb Additions: Aside from parsley, fresh dill or chives can complement the tuna nicely. These herbs can add a burst of freshness and a touch of sophistication.
- Creaminess Factor: If you prefer an even creamier casserole, you can add an extra dollop of sour cream or a little cream cheese to the mixture for added richness.
- Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, consider incorporating a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper into the mixture to give your casserole a kick.
With these tips, you can fully customize your Tuna Stroganoff Casserole, ensuring it matches your personal taste and turns out perfectly every time.
How to Store Tuna Stroganoff Casserole
Storing your Tuna Stroganoff Casserole properly extends its shelf life and maintains its deliciousness. Here’s how you can do that:
- Cooling: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
- Container: Choose an airtight container for storage. If you have any leftovers, place them in a glass or plastic container, ensuring it’s tightly sealed.
- Refrigeration: Store the casserole in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within a few days. It’s best consumed within three to four days.
- Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the casserole. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to two months.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to eat your leftovers, reheat thoroughly in the oven or microwave. If using the oven, cover it to prevent drying out, and ensure it’s heated to at least 165°F.
By following these storage tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your Tuna Stroganoff Casserole for days to come without losing its flavor or texture.
Variation of Tuna Stroganoff Casserole
There are numerous ways to customize your Tuna Stroganoff Casserole that can suit different tastes and diets. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the tuna with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and peas. This can create a similarly hearty dish without the fish.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your cream of celery soup is gluten-free. This allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy the casserole without worry.
- Seafood Twist: Mix in cooked shrimp or crab alongside the tuna for a seafood medley. This adds variety and layers of flavor to the dish.
- Healthier Ingredients: Swap out the regular mayonnaise for Greek yogurt, which can make the dish lighter while still maintaining creaminess.
- Spicy Zest: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy variant. This can give your casserole a new dimension and excitement.
By exploring these variations, your Tuna Stroganoff Casserole can adapt to different dietary needs or simply keep mealtime interesting.
FAQ about Tuna Stroganoff Casserole
What type of pasta works best in Tuna Stroganoff Casserole?
You can use any type of pasta; however, shell or rotini pasta is ideal because they hold the creamy sauce well.
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?
Yes, you can use fresh cooked tuna in place of canned. Just ensure it’s cooked through, flaked, and added at the same step as the canned version.
How do I reheat Tuna Stroganoff Casserole?
Reheat it in the oven at 350°F covered with foil or in the microwave until heated through, ensuring it reaches at least 165°F for safety.
How long can I store Tuna Stroganoff Casserole in the fridge?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, assuming it is kept in an airtight container.
Is there a vegetarian version of Tuna Stroganoff Casserole?
Yes, you can easily make it vegetarian by substituting tofu, mushrooms, or vegetables in place of tuna, while keeping the base sauce the same.
With your newfound knowledge about this delightful Tuna Stroganoff Casserole, you’re ready to whip up a meal that is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Tuna Stroganoff Casserole
Ingredients
Casserole Base
- 1 can condensed cream of celery soup 10.75 ounce can
- 1 cup grated Cheddar cheese for a creamy texture
- 1 can tuna, drained 7 ounce can
- 0.75 cup milk for creaminess
- 0.5 cup sour cream adds richness
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise for flavor and moisture
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley for freshness
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice for brightness
- 0.5 teaspoon salt season to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper season to taste
Pasta and Topping
- 1 pound cooked pasta any shape you prefer
- 1.5 cups bread crumbs or to taste, for topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a 9×5 inch loaf pan, combine the condensed cream of celery soup and grated Cheddar cheese.
- Add the drained tuna into the mixture and break it into smaller pieces.
- Pour in the milk, followed by the sour cream and mayonnaise. Stir until creamy.
- Add the chopped parsley and lemon juice, then season with salt and black pepper.
- Fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring every piece is coated.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the mixture.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes.
- Check for a golden-brown topping and bubbly sauce.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
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