Imagine a dish that instantly transports you back to childhood, warming your heart with every single bite! This incredible tuna casserole isn't just another recipe—it's a culinary treasure passed down through generations, promising to become your new family favorite. With its creamy texture, perfect blend of ingredients, and mouthwatering cheese topping, this casserole will have everyone at the dinner table asking for seconds (and begging for the recipe)!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can tuna, drained
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can cream of celery soup
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8x8 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, drain the canned tuna thoroughly, ensuring no excess liquid remains. Use a fork to break the tuna into small, even flakes.
- Add the cooked rice to the tuna, mixing gently to distribute evenly. The rice should be at room temperature or slightly warm.
- Pour the cream of celery soup over the tuna and rice mixture. Stir carefully to combine all ingredients, creating a creamy and cohesive base.
- Add the frozen peas directly into the mixture. They will thaw and cook during the baking process, adding a burst of color and nutrition.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are distributed throughout.
- Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, covering the entire surface.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the casserole is heated through.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh parsley or green onions if desired. Pair with a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Tips
- Use freshly cooked rice for the best texture and flavor absorption.
- Drain the tuna completely to prevent a watery casserole.
- For extra crunch, consider adding breadcrumbs on top of the cheese layer.
- Choose a high-quality shredded cheese for maximum melting and flavor.
- Let the casserole rest after baking to allow flavors to meld and make serving easier.
- For a healthier version, use low-fat cream of celery soup and reduced-fat cheese.
- Experiment with adding diced onions or celery for additional depth of flavor.
- Ensure your oven is properly preheated for even cooking and perfect golden-brown cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 174kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 28mg
