Mrs. Truman's Tuna Casserole

Tuna Casserole with Macaroni and Cheddar Cheese Recipe

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Mrs. Truman's Tuna Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that has been enjoyed by families for generations. This creamy and cheesy casserole is perfect for a cozy night in or a potluck dinner with friends.

History

This recipe has been passed down through the Truman family for years. Mrs. Truman, a homemaker with a passion for cooking, created this delicious tuna casserole as a way to feed her family a hearty and satisfying meal on a budget.

Ingredients

elbow macaroni
tuna packed in water, drained
1 cup of cream of celery soup
less than 0.25 cup of milk
cheddar cheese
bread crumbs
hard-boiled egg

How to prepare

Cook the elbow macaroni for 20 minutes.
Drain it well.
Stir in the tuna, cream of celery soup, and milk.
Sprinkle it with cheddar cheese and bread crumbs.
Bake it at 350°F (177°C) for about 20 minutes or until bubbles form.
Slice the hard-boiled egg on top.

Variations

Swap out the cream of celery soup for cream of mushroom or cream of chicken for a different flavor profile.
Add some frozen peas or diced bell peppers to the casserole mixture for extra color and nutrients.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Swiss, for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the elbow macaroni until it is al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

- For extra flavor, try adding some diced onions or celery to the casserole mixture.

- To make this dish even more indulgent, top it with some crispy bacon or fried onions before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mrs. Truman's Tuna Casserole with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the casserole at a moderate temperature allows the flavors to meld together and the cheese to melt and become bubbly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have elbow macaroni on hand, you can use any other type of pasta, such as penne or rotini. You can also substitute the cheddar cheese with any other type of cheese that melts well.

Make Ahead Tips

You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the casserole with some fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Mrs. Truman's Tuna Casserole pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

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

Each serving of Mrs. Truman's Tuna Casserole contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

Each serving of Mrs. Truman's Tuna Casserole contains around 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

With the tuna as the main protein source, this casserole provides about 20 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of calcium, thanks to the cheddar cheese, and also provides essential vitamins and minerals from the other ingredients.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheddar cheese) and gluten (elbow macaroni), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Overall, Mrs. Truman's Tuna Casserole is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Mrs. Truman's Tuna Casserole is a timeless recipe that is sure to become a family favorite. With its creamy texture, cheesy topping, and comforting flavors, this casserole is perfect for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated. Mrs. Truman's Tuna Casserole. The name itself intrigued me, as I had never heard of such a dish before. It was a cool autumn day, and I was attending a potluck dinner at the local church. Mrs. Truman, a sweet elderly lady with a twinkle in her eye, had brought in a steaming hot dish that filled the room with a comforting aroma.

I approached Mrs. Truman and asked her about the dish. She smiled warmly and began to tell me the story behind her famous Tuna Casserole. She explained that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. Mrs. Truman had made a few tweaks to the original recipe over the years, adding her own special touch to make it truly unique.

As she spoke, I could see the passion and love she had for cooking shining through. Mrs. Truman's eyes sparkled as she described the process of making the casserole, from sautéing the onions and garlic to layering the ingredients in a baking dish. She spoke of the importance of using high-quality ingredients and taking the time to prepare each component with care and attention.

I was mesmerized by her storytelling and couldn't wait to try the Tuna Casserole for myself. Mrs. Truman kindly offered to share the recipe with me, and I eagerly accepted. She wrote it down on a piece of paper, her handwriting elegant and precise. I thanked her profusely and promised to make the dish soon.

When I got home that evening, I immediately set to work making Mrs. Truman's Tuna Casserole. I followed her instructions to the letter, taking my time to ensure that each step was done correctly. The kitchen filled with the delicious scents of onion, garlic, and tuna as the casserole baked in the oven.

When it was finally done, I couldn't wait to dig in. The first bite was a revelation – creamy, savory, and utterly delicious. The flavors melded together perfectly, creating a dish that was comforting and satisfying. I understood why Mrs. Truman's Tuna Casserole was so beloved by all who had tried it.

From that day on, Mrs. Truman's Tuna Casserole became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potluck dinners, and special occasions. Each time I prepared the dish, I thought of Mrs. Truman and the joy she had brought to so many with her wonderful recipe.

Years passed, and Mrs. Truman eventually passed away, leaving behind her legacy of delicious cooking. I continued to make her Tuna Casserole, sharing it with friends and loved ones who always asked for the recipe. I felt a deep connection to Mrs. Truman every time I cooked her dish, as if she were there with me in the kitchen, guiding my hands and providing her wisdom.

And so, I pass on Mrs. Truman's Tuna Casserole to you, dear reader. May you find as much joy and satisfaction in making and sharing this dish as I have. Remember the love and tradition that went into creating it, and savor each bite with gratitude in your heart. Mrs. Truman's Tuna Casserole will always hold a special place in my culinary journey, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. Enjoy!