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Tuna Casserole

Tuna Casserole

  • Author: David
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Tuna Casserole delivers a warm, creamy, and satisfying meal featuring layers of tender tuna, smoky turkey bacon, and melted plant-based cheese (plant-based) in a rich, flavorful sauce. Baked to golden perfection, it is perfect for cozy family dinners and weeknight meals, offering comforting flavors and easy adaptability to dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Proteins

  • Tuna (canned or fresh), drained well – 2 cups
  • Smoked turkey bacon, cooked crisp and chopped – 6 slices

Cheese

  • Plant-based cheese (plant-based), shredded – 1 cup

Pasta and Vegetables

  • Pasta (elbow macaroni or any small shape) – 2 cups dry
  • Vegetables (such as peas and mushrooms) – 1 cup mixed
  • Onions, finely chopped – 1 medium
  • Garlic cloves, minced – 2

Sauces and Liquids

  • Plant-based milk – 2 cups
  • Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) – 1 tablespoon
  • Apple cider vinegar – 1 tablespoon

Thickening and Texture

  • Flour – 3 tablespoons
  • Natural gelling agent – 1 teaspoon

Seasonings and Herbs

  • Salt – to taste
  • Black pepper – to taste
  • Thyme – 1/2 teaspoon (or substitute with fresh dill or parsley)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for the sauce if needed.
  2. Prepare the Turkey Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crisp. Remove, chop into bite-size pieces, and keep aside for layering.
  3. Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Sprinkle in flour and stir to create a roux, then gradually whisk in plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar. Add vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) and season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Let the sauce simmer until thickened.
  4. Combine Tuna and Vegetables: Fold in the drained tuna, cooked pasta, mixed vegetables, and chopped turkey bacon into the sauce, stirring gently until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with shredded plant-based cheese (plant-based) and sprinkle the natural gelling agent evenly on top for perfect texture. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Notes

  • Drain tuna well to prevent excess moisture and maintain flavor.
  • Cook pasta slightly under al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven.
  • Mix ingredients gently to preserve texture and ensure even layering.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning before baking for the best flavor balance.
  • Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives just before serving for an aromatic finish.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Tuna Casserole, Plant-based cheese, Turkey bacon, Comfort food, Gluten free, Dairy-free, Weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://yummyrecipeszone.com/tuna-casserole/