It’s finally colder, and daylight saving is just around the corner. I’m about to share a family favorite with a modern twist – my mom’s classic tuna casserole, now upgraded with a healthy dose of protein-packed chickpea pasta. This dish is like a hug in a bowl, the definition of comfort food, perfect for cozy nights at home. So, please put on your apron, and let’s dive into the recipe to make the best dinner for the whole family to love.

Unleashing the Nostalgic Comfort

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of Mom’s tuna casserole wafting through the kitchen. It’s like being wrapped in a warm, familiar hug. The taste brings back memories of my family dinners and the comforting flavors of my childhood.

The Modern Upgrade

As we venture into healthier eating, I’ve given Mom’s classic recipe a little twist. Chickpea pasta is the secret weapon, adding extra protein and a lovely nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy casserole.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz chickpea pasta

– 2 cans (10 oz) of tuna, drained

– 1 bag (12 oz) frozen mixed vegetable 

– 1 cup mushrooms, diced

– 2 celery stalks, diced

– 1/2 cup onion, chopped

– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1 can (10oz) cream of mushroom

– 1 cup pasta water

– 2 tbsp olive oil

– Mushroom seasoning

– Creole seasoning (or Salt and pepper to taste)

– A pinch of nostalgia

Instructions:

1. Boil the Chickpea Pasta: Cook the chickpea pasta for 7 minutes (al dente). Save 1 cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a pot, sauté the mushrooms in olive oil until slightly tender. Add garlic and onion until fragrant.

3. Prepare the Sauce: Add about half of the pasta water to deglaze the pot, then add the frozen vegetables and celery—season with mushroom seasoning. Cook for about 3 minutes, then stir in the cream of mushroom. Add the remaining pasta water to the cream of mushroom can to get the most out of the condensed soup. Stirring continuously until it thickens—season with creole seasoning or Salt and pepper.

4. Prepare the casserole: Remove the mixture from heat, add the cooked chickpea pasta and drained tuna in the pot, and mix until well combined.

5. Time to bake: In a baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture and sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Pour the remaining pasta mixture, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and some more creole seasoning, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s golden and bubbly.

The Result: Pure Comfort

The result is a casserole that’s both nostalgic and nutritious, oozing with creamy, cheesy goodness and a touch of innovation. The chickpea pasta not only adds a protein punch but also makes it gluten-free. It’s the ultimate comfort food for a busy weeknight or a special Sunday family dinner.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to create your comforting memory with this fantastic tuna casserole!

Your Turn!

Don’t be afraid to experiment and add your personal touch to this recipe. Fell free to customize it with your favorite veggies or seasonings. Share your twist on this classic with me on Instagram.

Here are three tips for making a delicious tuna casserole:

1. Choose High-Quality Tuna: The key to a great tuna casserole is high-quality canned tuna. Opt for solid white albacore tuna packed in water for the best flavor and texture. Drain the tuna thoroughly to remove any excess liquid. You can also experiment with different types of tuna, such as skipjack or yellowfin, for a unique flavor.

2. Enhance the Flavor with Seasonings: While the classic tuna casserole is delicious, you can enhance its flavor by adding seasonings and herbs. Consider incorporating ingredients like minced garlic and diced onions to give your casserole a flavorful twist. Remember to season with your favorite seasoning or Salt and pepper to taste.

3. Explore Topping Options: The topping of your tuna casserole is where you can get creative. The traditional choice is crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs. Still, you can try alternatives like panko breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even a mixture of Parmesan cheese and butter for a crunchy and savory topping. Experiment with different textures and flavors to find the one you like best.

Remember that while these tips can help you make a delicious tuna casserole, cooking is also about personal taste. Feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your preferences and make the dish your own.

Conclusion

In a constantly changing world, some things, like Mom’s recipes, remain timeless. Mom’s classic tuna casserole, now with chickpea pasta, is a dish that brings the past and present together most deliciously. So, whip up a batch, share it with your loved ones, and savor the taste of home.

And if you enjoyed this recipe, remember to hit the share button so more people can enjoy this culinary delight. Until next time, happy cooking and bon appétit!

Did you make this recipe? Please tag me on Instagram @melshealthybowl to be featured in my stories.

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• The Best of Mom’s Classic Tuna Casserole

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