Ultimate Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake
Indulge in this delightful Ultimate Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake, a hearty, comforting casserole that's perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. This dish combines tender elbow macaroni with flavorful albacore tuna and a velvety creamy sauce, creating a satisfying meal that warms the soul. Finished off with a crispy layer of sharp cheddar cheese and buttery crackers, each bite is bursting with flavor. It's a favorite in our household, and your guests will be begging for seconds—and the recipe! Easy to prepare and sure to please, this casserole is a true crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy.
6
Servings
300
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
dry elbow macaroni
2 cups (uncooked)
albacore tuna, in water
2 (5 ounce) cans (undrained)
sour cream
8 ounces (none)
vegetables (frozen corn recommended)
1 cup (none)
sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup (shredded)
cream of mushroom soup
1 (10 ounce) can (none)
garlic powder
to taste (none)
crackers
optional (for topping, crush if desired)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3
In a large mixing pot, combine the undrained tuna, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, frozen vegetables, and garlic powder. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring until everything is well combined and warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
4
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the creamy tuna mixture. Stir until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
5
Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9x12 inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
6
Top the casserole with shredded sharp cheddar cheese and crushed crackers (if using), ensuring an even layer over the surface.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the ultimate in comfort food!
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
35g
Carbs
16g
Protein
1g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this tuna recipe?
The recipe is called the Ultimate Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake.
What category does this meal fall under?
It is categorized as a One Dish Meal.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are 300 calories per serving.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving contains 16g of protein.
At what temperature should the oven be preheated?
The oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C).
How long does the casserole need to bake?
The casserole should bake for 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
What type of pasta is recommended?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of dry elbow macaroni.
How should the macaroni be prepared before baking?
Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain it.
What kind of tuna is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses two 5-ounce cans of albacore tuna in water.
Should the tuna be drained before mixing?
No, the tuna should be used undrained.
What kind of soup is required for the creamy sauce?
A 10-ounce can of cream of mushroom soup is used.
How much sour cream is used?
The recipe requires 8 ounces of sour cream.
What vegetables are suggested for the bake?
One cup of frozen vegetables is needed, with frozen corn being the recommended choice.
What kind of cheese is used for the topping?
One cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese is used for the top layer.
Are there any optional toppings for this dish?
Yes, crushed crackers can be added as an optional topping for extra crunch.
How do you prepare the tuna mixture?
Combine the tuna, sour cream, soup, vegetables, and garlic powder in a pot and heat over low heat for 5-7 minutes.
What size casserole dish should I use?
A greased 9x12 inch casserole dish is recommended.
Is there any specific seasoning included?
Garlic powder is used to taste.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are 10g of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
There are 35g of carbohydrates per serving.
Does this meal provide any fiber?
Yes, there is 1g of fiber per serving.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients in total.
What is the texture of the sauce?
The sauce is described as velvety and creamy.
Is this recipe suitable for picky eaters?
Yes, the description states that even picky eaters will enjoy this crowd-pleaser.
Should the casserole cool before serving?
Yes, let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Can I use different types of frozen vegetables?
Yes, while corn is recommended, you can use 1 cup of any frozen vegetables.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include tuna casserole, pasta bake, comfort food, and easy recipe.
Is this a good recipe for family dinners?
Yes, it is described as a hearty and comforting casserole perfect for family dinners.
What is the final visual cue that the bake is finished?
The bake is finished when the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.