Cheese-topped Tuna Casserole

Cheese-topped Tuna Casserole Recipe from USA with Onion, Rice, and Cheddar

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 2-3

Introduction

Cheese-topped Tuna Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that is easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in. This creamy and cheesy casserole is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

History

Tuna casserole has been a popular dish in American households since the 1950s. It was a convenient and budget-friendly meal that could be made with pantry staples. The addition of cheese on top adds a deliciously gooey and savory element to the dish.

Ingredients

0.33 cup chopped onion
1 tsp butter or margarine
1 cup cooked rice
0.67 cup tuna, drained and flaked
7 tbsp (0.33 of 10.75 oz (305 g) can) condensed cream of celery soup
2 tsp lemon juice
0.25 tsp salt
0.13 tsp ground black pepper
0.33 cup (1.3 oz (37 g)) shredded cheddar cheese

How to prepare

In a small skillet, cook the onion in butter until tender but not browned.
Stir in the rice, tuna, soup, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Transfer the mixture into a greased shallow 6-inch baking dish or individual casseroles.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 minutes or until heated through.
Sprinkle with cheese and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Variations

Swap out the tuna for canned chicken or salmon for a different flavor.
Use different types of condensed soup, such as cream of mushroom or cream of chicken, for a variation in taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the tuna well before adding it to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.

- You can use any type of cheese you prefer for the topping, such as mozzarella or Swiss.

- Feel free to add in extra vegetables like peas or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Cheese-topped Tuna Casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter instead of margarine

- Use any type of cheese you prefer for the topping

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add the cheese topping right before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine or a light beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 280 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 23g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 11g per serving

Saturated Fat: 5g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 18g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium, and Iron.

Alergens

Contains dairy (cheese) and fish (tuna)

Summary

This Cheese-topped Tuna Casserole is a balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Cheese-topped Tuna Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner. With a creamy and cheesy topping, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Cheese-topped Tuna Casserole. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy kitchen. Margaret was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and that day she was preparing a special lunch for us.

As I watched Margaret effortlessly move around her kitchen, I couldn't help but admire her culinary skills. She had a way of combining simple ingredients to create mouthwatering dishes that always left me wanting more. On that particular day, Margaret was making her famous Tuna Casserole, a dish that she had learned from her own grandmother many years ago.

I watched in awe as Margaret chopped onions, celery, and mushrooms, and sautéed them in a skillet until they were perfectly tender. She then added a can of creamy mushroom soup, a splash of milk, and a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese. The mixture was combined with cooked egg noodles and canned tuna, and then poured into a baking dish.

But it was the final touch that truly made Margaret's Tuna Casserole stand out from the rest. She sprinkled a generous amount of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the casserole before popping it in the oven to bake. The result was a golden, bubbly masterpiece that filled the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma.

As Margaret pulled the casserole out of the oven, I couldn't wait to dig in. The cheesy topping was perfectly crispy, and the creamy filling was rich and flavorful. Each bite was a delightful combination of textures and flavors that left me craving more.

I asked Margaret for the recipe, eager to recreate the dish in my own kitchen. She graciously wrote it down for me, along with a few tips and tricks that she had picked up over the years. I thanked her profusely and promised to let her know how my version turned out.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients for the Tuna Casserole. I followed Margaret's instructions to the letter, chopping, sautéing, and stirring with care. As the casserole baked in the oven, the familiar scent filled my kitchen, bringing back memories of my visit with Margaret.

When the timer dinged, I pulled the casserole out of the oven and marveled at the golden crust that had formed on top. I couldn't wait to take a bite and see if my version lived up to Margaret's. As I dug in, I was transported back to her kitchen, savoring each mouthful and relishing in the comforting flavors.

From that day on, Cheese-topped Tuna Casserole became a staple in my recipe collection. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and cozy nights at home. Each time, it was met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe.

Over the years, I have shared Margaret's recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of this delicious dish. I have added my own twist here and there, experimenting with different cheeses, vegetables, and seasonings. But no matter how I change it up, the essence of Margaret's Tuna Casserole always shines through.

As I sit down to enjoy a steaming plate of Cheese-topped Tuna Casserole, I am reminded of the special bond that food creates between friends and loved ones. Margaret's recipe will forever hold a place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and camaraderie that comes from sharing a meal with those we hold dear. And for that, I am forever grateful.