Dixie's Tuna Casserole

I always have the ingredients for a tuna casserole on hand.  It has saved us from a fast-food supper many times.  I have nothing against the occasional night of eating out but our goal is to eat at home as often as we can and on those nights when you're running late or just plain don't feel like cooking whipping up a quick casserole can be a life saver.

My recipe varies slightly from the traditional.  I've added a few ingredients to give the dish a boost of flavor.  For a change of taste try switching out the usual peas for mixed veggies instead or broccoli.  Like it cheesy?  Swap out the breadcrumbs for a little extra cheese on top.

This can also easily become a freezer meal.  Mix it all up (minus the bread crumbs), wrap it up very well, and pop it in the freezer.  Take it out the day before you're planning to and let it thaw in the refrigerator and then bake as usual.

Dixie's Tuna Casserole

2 cans tuna (in water)

2 cans cream of mushroom soup

1/2 cup Miracle Whip or mayo

1 cup milk

1 teaspoon dried dill weed

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon celery salt (optional)

black pepper, to taste

1 pound elbow macaroni, cooked and drained

2 cups frozen peas

1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese

1 cup seasoned bread crumbs

2 tablespoon margarine

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.  Spray a 9x13-inch pan with nonstick cooking spray.

 

In a large bowl combine tuna (and water), soup, Miracle Whip, dill weed, garlic powder, onion powder, celery salt and pepper.  Stir well to combine.  Stir in macaroni, cheese and peas.

Pour mixture into baking pan and bake for 20 minutes.

 

In a small, microwave-safe bowl add bread crumbs and margarine.  Microwave on HIGH for approximately 30 seconds or until margarine is melted.  Stir together until bread crumbs are evenly coated with margarine.  Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of casserole.  Continue baking for 15-20 minutes or until bread crumbs are evenly browned.

 

Remove from oven and serve immediately.

Click HERE for a printable version of this recipe.