Tuna & Potato Casserole

The Ultimate Comfort Food Bake – Hearty, Creamy & Budget-Friendly

This casserole is the epitome of cozy, economical cooking—combining tender potatoes, savory tuna, and a creamy, cheesy sauce baked under a crispy topping. It’s a complete meal in one dish, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.

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🥔 The Ultimate Recipe

Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 45 mins | Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

For the Potato Layer:

• 2 lbs Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (⅛-inch thick)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder

For the Tuna Filling:

• 2 (5 oz) cans tuna in water, drained (or use oil-packed for more flavor)
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix (or corn)
• ½ cup finely diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• ½ tsp mustard powder or Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

For the Topping:

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp melted butter or olive oil
• 1 tsp dried herbs (thyme, parsley, or paprika)

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👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Potatoes:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• In a large bowl, toss sliced potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Arrange half the potatoes in an even layer in the baking dish.

2. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce:

• In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute until bubbly.
• Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5 minutes).
• Remove from heat. Stir in ½ cup of the cheddar cheese, mustard powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until cheese melts.

3. Assemble the Casserole:

• In a bowl, combine tuna, peas/carrots, onion, garlic, and parsley.
• Spread the tuna mixture evenly over the potato layer in the baking dish.
• Pour half of the cheese sauce over the tuna.
• Top with remaining potato slices, then pour the rest of the sauce over everything.
• Sprinkle with remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese.

4. Add Topping & Bake:

• Mix panko, Parmesan, melted butter, and herbs. Sprinkle over the casserole.
• Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake 15-20 more minutes until potatoes are tender, sauce is bubbly, and topping is golden.
• Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

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🔥 Pro-Tips for a Perfect Casserole

1. Slice Potatoes Evenly: Use a mandoline for uniform thickness so they cook evenly.
2. Precook Potatoes (Optional): For faster baking, parboil potato slices for 5 minutes before assembling.
3. Drain Tuna Well: Press out excess liquid to prevent a watery casserole.
4. Customize Veggies: Add broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers.
5. Make Ahead: Assemble (unbaked) up to 24 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate. Add 10-15 minutes to bake time.