Cheesy High-Protein Dijon & Chive Tuna Casserole Recipe Is Next Level (8 Ingredients, 35 Minutes) by Elisa Schmitz

When looking for quick and easy sources of protein, look no further than tuna fish. In fact, a single 5-ounce can of economical tuna can contain about 30 grams of protein for only about 140 calories, making it a great choice for lower-calorie yet higher-protein meals. But tuna can also be a cozy comfort food, whether in tuna salad, sandwiches or, my favorite, tuna casseroles. And not all tuna casseroles are like the ones Grandma used to make (though those are delicious, too). Like this cheesy high-protein Dijon and chive tuna casserole recipe – it's next level!

Many old-fashioned tuna casseroles are made with canned soups, such as cream of mushroom or cream of celery. But this is a different type of tuna casserole recipe. This cheesy high-protein tuna noodle casserole is made with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard and two kinds of cheeses (in addition to the pasta, tuna, fresh chives and peas). With only eight ingredients and ready in just about 35 minutes, it's a budget-friendly comfort food recipe that's smooth and satisfying. Plus, check out the health benefits of protein and the health benefits of tuna.

To make this creamy casserole recipe, here are the simple ingredients you'll need to gather: short pasta such as rotini (regular or gluten-free), canned tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, fresh chives (learn why chives have health benefits), green peas (check out the health benefits of peas), cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese (learn why Parmesan is one of the healthier cheeses). The green onions are an optional garnish that add depth of flavor (in addition to the health benefits of scallions). Simply combine the cooked pasta with the tuna, mayonnaise, mustard, chives and peas and spread the mixture into a casserole dish. Spread the cheeses on top then bake the casserole until it's a bubbling golden brown.

Serve this savory tuna noodle casserole recipe all on its own for dinner, or as a side dish with whatever else you're serving. Garnish with green onions, if you like. So easy and delicious!

Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 8 ounces short pasta, such as rotini (regular or gluten-free pasta)
• 15 ounces (3 cans) tuna, drained
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise (or to taste)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (or to taste)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh chives, diced
• 2 cups frozen peas, thawed
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• 4 green onions, diced (optional)
• salt and pepper, to taste (optional, but I used about 3/4 teaspoon of each)

Here's how to make it:

1. In a pasta pot, cook the noodles to al dente, per package directions. Drain and return pasta to the pot.
   
2. Add the tuna, mayonnaise, mustard and chives. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, if desired. Stir to combine. Taste to see if you'd like any more mayo, mustard, salt or pepper. (You could try this recipe with canned salmon or chicken, too.)
   
3. Fold in the peas.
   
4. Spread the mixture into a 13x9-inch baking dish.
   
5. Top with the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. (You could use all cheddar or all Parmesan, if preferred. You also could use mozzarella instead of cheddar or Parmesan.)
   
6. Bake in an oven that's been preheated to 350 degrees F until cooked through and a bubbling golden brown, about 15 minutes.
   
7. Remove from oven and allow to cool for a few moments before slicing (or scooping) and serving. Garnish with fresh scallions, if desired. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.
   

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