Description

Tuna Casserole is a comforting and creamy plant-based dish combining flaky canned tuna, smoky turkey bacon, tender pasta, and fresh vegetables. This easy-to-make casserole features a luscious plant-based creamy sauce with savory aromatics and a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for a quick family dinner that’s customizable and full of familiar flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Main Ingredients

2 cans of tuna, drained well
6 slices smoked turkey bacon
3 cups cooked elbow macaroni or shell pasta (gluten-free if preferred)

Vegetables and Aromatics

1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced

Creamy Sauce

1 1/2 cups creamy plant-based dairy
2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent

Toppings (optional)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if preferred)

Instructions

Prepare the Pasta and Bacon: Cook pasta according to package instructions until just al dente, then drain and set aside. In a pan, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crisp. Chop into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables: Using the same pan, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant. Add sliced mushrooms and peas, cooking just until tender but still retaining their texture and freshness.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In a separate saucepan, whisk together creamy plant-based dairy, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and natural gelling agent until smooth and thickened to a luscious sauce consistency.
Combine and Assemble: In a large bowl, gently mix cooked pasta, drained tuna, sautéed vegetables, and crumbled turkey bacon with the creamy sauce until all ingredients are well combined.
Bake to Perfection: Transfer mixture to a greased casserole dish. If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Notes

Use al dente pasta to maintain texture after baking.
Drain tuna thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
Do not skip smoked turkey bacon for added flavor and crunch.
Adjust natural gelling agent amount as needed for perfect creamy texture.
Allow casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to firm up.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 550mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: tuna casserole, plant-based creamy sauce, turkey bacon, gluten-free dinner, easy weeknight meals, family dinner, creamy casserole