Creamy Avocado Tuna Casserole

Name: Creamy Avocado Tuna Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 ripe avocados, mashed; 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup diced onion; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 30 min

🍽 Serves: 6

★★★★★

Be the First to Review!

Looking for a new twist on a classic casserole? This Creamy Avocado Tuna Casserole combines comfort food with a fresh, modern vibe. It's a creamy, cheesy delight that’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

Save Print Jump to Recipe

Ingredients for Creamy Avocado Tuna Casserole

The backbone of this dish is the elbow macaroni, which provides the perfect base for our creamy sauce. The star of the show is the avocado, lending a rich, buttery texture that complements the tuna. Speaking of which, tuna is our protein hero, offering a mild, savory flavor. Frozen peas add a pop of sweetness and color, while sharp cheddar cheese contributes a deep, tangy richness. Diced onion offers a subtle bite, balancing the creaminess. Milk and mayonnaise team up to create that classic casserole creaminess, while garlic powder and onion powder enhance the overall flavor. Finally, we sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top for a satisfying crunch.

Tips & Tricks

Use ripe avocados for the best creamy texture.
If you're out of cheddar, try substituting with mozzarella or even pepper jack for a spicier kick.
For an extra flavor boost, add a squeeze of lemon juice to the avocado mixture.
Make sure to drain the tuna well to avoid a watery casserole.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli to add some color to your plate. If you're feeling indulgent, serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?: Absolutely! Just blanch them briefly before adding.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?: You can use Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter option.
How long will leftovers last?: Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, this dish will keep for about 3 days.

Creamy Avocado Tuna Casserole Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures it's ready to go once your casserole is assembled. Next, cook your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain it well and set it aside for later – this will be our pasta base.

In a large mixing bowl, combine your mashed avocados, drained tuna, frozen peas, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, milk, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir these together until they’re well mixed and creamy. Now, fold in the cooked macaroni, making sure every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious sauce.

Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and pour your mixture into it, spreading it out evenly. Take your crushed tortilla chips and sprinkle them over the top to cover the casserole with a crunchy layer.

Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for the top to turn a lovely golden color and for the edges to bubble slightly. Once done, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving so everything sets nicely.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare for any skill level.
A unique blend of creamy avocado and savory tuna.
Crunchy tortilla chip topping adds a delightful texture.
Perfect for using up pantry staples like tuna and pasta.

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni

2 ripe avocados, mashed

2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained

1 cup frozen peas

1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup diced onion

1 cup milk

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.

2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed avocados, drained tuna, frozen peas, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, milk, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

4. Fold the cooked macaroni into the avocado-tuna mixture until well combined.

5. Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

6. Sprinkle the top with crushed tortilla chips for a crispy texture.

7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbly.

8. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Save Print

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!