Tuna Cashew Casserole Recipe ππ₯
Overview:
Cashews and chow mein noodles elevate this Tuna Cashew Casserole to a whole new level of deliciousness, making it stand out from traditional tuna casseroles. This recipe, generously shared by my dear friend Donna W. many moons ago, has become a cherished favorite. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cook time of 40 minutes, it’s a quick and easy dish perfect for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful Tuna Cashew Casserole:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2/3 cup | Celery |
| 2/3 cup | Onion |
| 1/4 cup | Green bell pepper |
| 1 1/2 tbsp | Butter |
| 3 tbsp | Butter (for sauce) |
| 1/2 cup | Flour |
| 1 1/2 tsp | Salt |
| 2 cups | Milk |
| 3 cans (5 oz each) | Tuna in water |
| 3/4 cup | Salted cashews |
| 2 cups | Chow mein noodles |
| To taste | Pepper |
Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to create this mouthwatering Tuna Cashew Casserole:
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Prepare Vegetables: Begin by sautΓ©ing celery, onion, and green bell pepper in 1 1/2 tablespoons of butter until tender. Set aside.
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Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, mix in the flour, stirring until smooth and well combined.
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Create the Creamy Base: Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually add salt and milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Return the saucepan to the heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently.
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Thicken the Sauce: Allow the mixture to boil for about 1 minute, or until it thickens to your desired consistency, continuing to stir constantly to prevent burning.
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Incorporate Tuna and Vegetables: Add the canned tuna and the prepared vegetables to the saucepan with the creamy sauce. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
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Add Cashews and Chow Mein Noodles: Stir in the milk, 1 cup of chow mein noodles, salted cashews, and pepper, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
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Prepare the Casserole: Grease a 1 1/2 quart baking dish with butter. Pour the tuna and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
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Top with Chow Mein Noodles: Sprinkle the remaining chow mein noodles over the top of the casserole, creating a crunchy and flavorful topping.
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Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C), then bake the casserole for approximately 30 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the top is golden brown and crispy.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the Tuna Cashew Casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Serve it hot and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures!
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 413.1 per serving
- Fat Content: 26.4g
- Saturated Fat: 10.3g
- Cholesterol Content: 60.7mg
- Sodium Content: 709.5mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 23.9g
- Fiber: 1.8g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein Content: 21.7g
Serving Suggestions:
This Tuna Cashew Casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce. For a pop of color and freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips:
If you’re planning ahead, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to account for the chilled dish. This make-ahead option is perfect for busy days or when entertaining guests.
Recipe Variations:
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are some ideas for variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the tuna with chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian version of this casserole.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free flour and gluten-free chow mein noodles to make this dish gluten-free.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the casserole before baking for an extra cheesy finish.
Conclusion:
With its creamy sauce, tender tuna, crunchy cashews, and crispy chow mein noodles, this Tuna Cashew Casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a winner every time. Give it a try and savor the delightful flavors of this comforting casserole! π½οΈ
