Shells and Cheese Creamy Tuna Casserole

Tuna casseroles were a popular comfort food for baby boomers. It was easy, quick and inexpensive to make. It wasn’t, however, too popular with the kids, mainly because most recipes were bland and usually included veggies like broccoli. This, more modern version, uses pantry ingredients (but not canned soup), for convenience and for “kid approval.” Rather than using noodles, this recipe uses Velveeta Shells & Cheese. Sneak in a few veggies, like red bell pepper, onions and peas, and you’ve got a casserole that both the little ones and the “big” ones will enjoy! No muss, no fuss and perfect for those picky eaters. This isn’t a gourmet version, it’s a mommy “must make” version.

Preheat oven to 350° F.  Lightly spray a 15x10x2-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Prepare Velveeta Shells & Cheese according to package directions. 

Meanwhile in a small skillet, sauté onions, red bell peppers and garlic (if using) in butter until soft. (In this house, we add garlic to everything.) 

Add this mixture (including butter in skillet) to prepared Shells & Cheese, along with all remaining ingredients. Mix well to thoroughly combine. Spoon into prepared baking pan. 

Cover with aluminum foil. Bake 40 to 45 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through.

SHELLS & CHEESE CREAMY TUNA CASSEROLE
Source: Adapted from Kraft Recipe
Posted by: www.meldingmagic.com

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 packages (12 ounces each) Velveeta Shells & Cheese
• 3/4 cup chopped onion
• 3/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 2 teaspoons chopped garlic
• 6 Tablespoons butter   
• 2 cups frozen green peas, thawed
• 2 cans (12 ounces each) tuna (packed in water), drained well and broken up into smaller pieces
• 1-3/4 cup mayonnaise

             
DIRECTIONS:

1.  Preheat oven to 350° F.
2.  Prepare Shells & Cheese according to package directions.
3.  Meanwhile, in small skillet, sauté onions, red peppers and garlic in butter until soft. Add this mixture
     (including butter) to Shells & Cheese, along with all remaining ingredients. Mix well. Spoon into lightly
     greased 15 x10 x 2-in baking pan.
 4. Cover with aluminum foil. Bake 40 to 45 min., or until thoroughly heated.