Tuna Broccoli Casserole

Tuna Broccoli Casserole Recipe - American Cuisine

Region / culture: USA | Servings: 6

Introduction

Tuna broccoli casserole is a classic comfort food dish that is easy to make and perfect for a cozy family dinner. This creamy and cheesy casserole is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of tuna and broccoli in one dish.

History

Tuna broccoli casserole has been a popular dish in American households for decades. It is a convenient and budget-friendly meal that can be easily prepared with pantry staples. The combination of tuna, broccoli, and cheese creates a satisfying and flavorful casserole that is loved by many.

Ingredients

2 packages (10 oz (283 g)) of frozen broccoli, whole or chopped
2 cans (7 oz (198 g)) of water-packed tuna, broken into small pieces
1 can (10 oz (283 g)) of cream of mushroom soup, diluted with 0.5 cup of milk
1 cup of grated cheddar or american cheese
0.5 cup of plain bread crumbs
2 tbsp of melted margarine

How to prepare

Cook the broccoli according to the package directions, drain it, and place it in a shallow 2 qt (1.89 liter) casserole.
Add the tuna and cover it with diluted mushroom soup.
Sprinkle it with cheese.
Add bread crumbs to melted butter and sprinkle them over the casserole.
Bake it at 350°F (177°C) for 20 minutes.

Variations

Add cooked pasta or rice to the casserole for a heartier dish.
Use different types of cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Add diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra vegetables.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the broccoli well before adding it to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.

- You can use fresh broccoli instead of frozen if preferred. Simply steam or blanch the broccoli before adding it to the casserole.

- Feel free to add your favorite seasonings or herbs to enhance the flavor of the casserole.

- For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes after baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the tuna broccoli casserole with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It can also be paired with steamed rice or quinoa for added nutrition.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canned chicken or salmon instead of tuna.

- Substitute cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup for the mushroom soup.

- Use panko breadcrumbs instead of plain breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the casserole with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the tuna broccoli casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the tuna broccoli casserole with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, serve with sparkling water or lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 20g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 5g

Fats

- Total Fat: 15g

- Saturated Fat: 7g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 25g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 20% DV

- Vitamin C: 80% DV

- Calcium: 30% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (cheese and milk)

- Contains wheat (bread crumbs)

Summary

Tuna broccoli casserole is a nutritious dish that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a balanced meal that can be enjoyed as a main course.

Summary

Tuna broccoli casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner. With its creamy texture and cheesy topping, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy the flavors of tuna and broccoli in this easy and satisfying recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl learning my way around the kitchen. My love for cooking was just beginning to blossom, and I was always on the lookout for new and exciting recipes to try.

One day, I was flipping through an old cookbook that had been handed down to me from my own grandmother. The pages were yellowed and worn, but the recipes inside were full of promise. As I turned the pages, a particular recipe caught my eye - Tuna Broccoli Casserole.

I had never heard of such a dish before, but something about it intrigued me. The combination of tuna, broccoli, and creamy sauce sounded delicious, and I knew I had to give it a try. I carefully read through the recipe, taking note of each ingredient and step. It seemed simple enough, and I was eager to see how it would turn out.

I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. As I chopped the broccoli and mixed the sauce, the aroma of the dish began to fill the air. It was warm and comforting, and I knew I was onto something special.

After baking the casserole in the oven, I couldn't wait to take my first bite. The flavors were even better than I had imagined - the tuna was tender and flaky, the broccoli was perfectly cooked, and the sauce was rich and creamy. It was a dish unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew it would become a staple in my recipe collection.

I served the Tuna Broccoli Casserole to my family that night, and they all raved about how delicious it was. My mother asked for the recipe, and I proudly shared it with her, feeling a sense of accomplishment at having discovered such a wonderful dish.

As the years passed, the Tuna Broccoli Casserole became a favorite in our household. It was a dish I would often make for special occasions or just when I wanted to treat my loved ones to a comforting and satisfying meal. I would always think back to that day when I first found the recipe in my grandmother's old cookbook, grateful for the discovery that had brought so much joy to our kitchen.

Over time, I began to make slight tweaks to the recipe, adding my own personal touch here and there. I experimented with different seasonings, cheeses, and even added some breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish. Each variation was delicious in its own way, but the original recipe remained a classic that I would always come back to.

As I grew older, I continued to share the recipe with friends and family, passing it down to the next generation just as it had been passed down to me. It became a tradition in our family, a dish that would always bring us together around the dinner table.

Now, as I sit here reflecting on all the memories I have made in the kitchen over the years, I can't help but feel grateful for the Tuna Broccoli Casserole. It may seem like just a simple recipe, but to me, it represents so much more - a love of cooking, a sense of tradition, and the joy of sharing delicious food with the ones we hold dear.

So whenever I make the Tuna Broccoli Casserole now, I do so with a smile on my face, remembering that first time I found the recipe and the journey it has taken me on ever since. It's a dish that will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and comfort that can be found in a simple homemade meal. And for that, I am truly grateful.