If you're looking for a comforting, savory dish that combines the heartiness of tuna with the freshness of spinach, then this Savory Tuna Spinach Casserole is just the thing. It's a simple, satisfying meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch.
Tuna: Provides a protein-rich base with a mild flavor that pairs well with other ingredients.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: These create a creamy, tangy sauce that binds everything together.
Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring depth and flavor to the dish.
Olive Oil: Used to sauté the onions and garlic, adding a subtle richness.
Onion and Garlic: Aromatic foundation that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Spinach: Adds a touch of freshness and a nutritional boost.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, cheesy texture.
Egg Noodles: Provide a hearty base that soaks up the creamy sauce.
Breadcrumbs and Parmesan Cheese: Form a crispy, golden topping that adds texture and flavor.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad of mixed greens and a light vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A glass of chilled white wine can also complement the flavors beautifully.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that it's ready when you are, allowing the casserole to bake evenly. Next, in a large bowl, combine the tuna, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well blended, creating a creamy base for the casserole.
Now, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until the onion becomes translucent. This should take about 3-5 minutes, and you'll know they're ready when your kitchen smells amazing.
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir it occasionally until it wilts, which should only take about 3 minutes. Once the spinach is wilted, remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool slightly.
In the bowl with the tuna mixture, add the sautéed spinach, mozzarella cheese, and cooked egg noodles. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly so it cooks uniformly.
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese together. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole, ensuring a crunchy topping that will bake to golden perfection.
Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier.