Hey there, friends!
Are you craving something cozy and delicious? I’ve got just the dish for you.
Today, I’m diving into a baked salmon casserole that’s packed with flavor and goodness.
It’s easy to whip up and perfect for busy weeknights.
Plus, it’s a great way to get your omega-3s in!
Let’s get cooking!
Possible Ingredient Alternatives
Shell pasta can be replaced with whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles for a healthier, lower-carb option. Adjust cooking time for zucchini noodles, as they require less time to cook. Condensed cream of celery soup can be substituted with homemade white sauce or cashew cream for those avoiding processed foods. Use equal amounts and adjust seasoning as needed. Cooked salmon can be swapped with canned tuna or cooked chicken for different flavor profiles and protein sources. Use the same amount as the recipe calls for, ensuring the substitute is well-drained. For a gluten-free version, replace Ritz crackers with crushed gluten-free crackers or a mixture of almond flour and nutritional yeast for a crunchy topping.
| Preparation Time | 15-20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 30-40 minutes |
| Total Time | 45-60 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 1200-1400
- Protein: 70-80 g
- Fat: 70-80 g
- Carbohydrates: 100-110 g
Ingredients
- 8 ounces shell pasta
- Kosher salt
- 1 large carrot, grated (around 3/4 cup)
- 10.5 ounces condensed cream of celery soup (not diluted)
- 1/4 cup mayo
- 1 can milk (using the empty soup can for measurement)
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar
- 1 cup peas, frozen
- 8 ounces cooked salmon, flaked
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 10 ritz crackers, crushed
- Old bay seasoning, for sprinkling
- Fresh chopped chives, for garnish
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 350℉ (175℃).
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
Add the pasta shells to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions until they are just al dente.
Halfway through the cooking time for the pasta, add shredded carrots to the pot to cook alongside the pasta.
Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture
While the pasta and carrots are cooking, take a large mixing bowl and combine the following ingredients: soup, mayonnaise, milk, cheese, peas, salmon, and onion.
Mix everything together until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture is well combined.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Casserole Mixture
Once the pasta and carrots are cooked to al dente, drain them well.
Immediately add the drained pasta and carrots to the soup mixture in the large bowl.
Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure the pasta and carrots are well coated with the mixture.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Casserole
Transfer the combined mixture into a 13×9-inch or 2-quart baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Top the casserole with the crushed crackers, distributing them evenly over the top.
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the casserole is nicely baked and bubbly, remove it from the oven.
Dust the top with a little Old Bay seasoning for added flavor.
Sprinkle some snipped chives or parsley over the casserole to add a fresh garnish.
Serve the casserole warm and enjoy your delicious meal.
