Are you on the hunt for a delicious, budget-friendly meal that doesn't skimp on flavor? Look no further than our "Pimping on Budget Tuna Casserole"! This classic American dish is not only easy to whip up, but it also packs a hearty punch with its creamy texture and cheesy goodness. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole can feed the whole family without breaking the bank. Get ready to dive into a recipe that combines convenience with comfort—your taste buds will thank you!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans tuna, drained
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, frozen peas, and cooked pasta. Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed.
- Add ½ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture, reserving the remaining cheese for topping. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well to incorporate the seasonings.
- Transfer the tuna mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, ensuring that it covers the entire surface for a nice cheesy crust.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set slightly and make it easier to serve.
- Serve the casserole warm, and enjoy your budget-friendly meal! It pairs well with a simple side salad or some crusty bread.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can cook the pasta and drain the tuna ahead of time. This way, when you're ready to make the casserole, everything is ready to go in just minutes!
- Mix and Match: Feel free to customize your casserole by adding other vegetables like corn or bell peppers, or even swapping the cheddar cheese for your favorite variety.
- Perfect Bake: Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes. You want the cheese to be melted and bubbly, but not overcooked. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil.
- Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for about 5 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This resting time helps the layers settle, making it easier to serve.
- Pair it Right: Serve your casserole with a fresh side salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal and add a refreshing crunch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 290kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 35mg
