Tuna and Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Tuna Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna, frozen peas, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until evenly combined.
3. Make the Mashed Potato Layer: If you don’t have leftover mashed potatoes, prepare fresh mashed potatoes by boiling about 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, mashing them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Once mashed, set them aside.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Spread a layer of mashed potatoes evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Then, spread the tuna mixture over the potatoes, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
5. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese generously over the tuna mixture. This will create a rich, cheesy layer as the casserole bakes.
6. Optional Breadcrumb Topping: For an extra crunch, top the casserole with breadcrumbs before baking. This step is optional but adds a delightful texture to the final dish.
7. Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is slightly golden brown.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

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Why This Casserole is So Popular:

• Comforting: The creamy mashed potatoes provide a perfect base, while the tuna adds a savory, protein-packed punch. The gooey cheese brings it all together, making this dish the ultimate comfort food.
• Customizable: You can get creative by adding vegetables like corn, carrots, or bell peppers to the tuna mixture. You can also experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack to change up the flavor.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors of this casserole are perfect for picky eaters, making it a great choice for family dinners. Plus, kids will love the cheesy topping!

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Tips for the Perfect Tuna and Mashed Potato Casserole:

• Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes: This casserole is a great way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes from another meal, saving you time and reducing food waste.
• Make it Your Own: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or parsley for a little extra flavor. You can also spice things up with a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
• Cheese Lovers: Don’t be shy with the cheese! Adding extra cheese to both the mashed potatoes and the top will give your casserole an extra creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes well, so you can prepare it ahead of time and store it for later. Just assemble it, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 45 minutes or until hot throughout.

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Serving Suggestions:

• With a Salad: Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad or a simple cucumber and tomato salad for a balanced meal.
• Add a Side of Veggies: Serve alongside steamed broccoli, carrots, or any of your favorite vegetables to add some color and nutrition to your meal.
• Perfect for Lunch: This casserole can also be enjoyed as a lunch option the next day, as the flavors continue to meld together and improve.

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Conclusion:

The Tuna and Mashed Potato Casserole is a perfect combination of comfort, simplicity, and flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family, looking for a quick meal after a long day, or simply craving a hearty dish, this casserole has you covered. The creamy potatoes, savory tuna, and cheesy topping come together to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also filling. Give it a try and enjoy this easy, budget-friendly recipe that will quickly become a family favorite.