Name: Easy Baked Salmon Casserole Recipe That Everyone Will Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 8 oz shell pasta (substitute with whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles for a healthier option); 1 cup shredded carrots (pre-cook with pasta for maximum ease); 10.5 oz condensed cream of celery soup (replace with homemade white sauce or cashew cream for a fresher option); 1/2 cup mayonnaise (adjust to personal taste); 1/2 cup milk (non-dairy options like almond or oat milk work beautifully); 1 cup cheese (substitute with dairy-free cheese for lactose-free version); 1 cup frozen peas (fresh or canned can work if frozen aren't available); 1 medium onion (optional, but recommended for savory taste); 1 cup crushed crackers (substitute with gluten-free crackers for gluten-free option); 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional, adds flavor); 2 tbsp chives or parsley (optional, for garnish); 1 lb salmon (cooked tuna or chicken can be alternatives)

When life gets busy, the last thing I want to worry about is dinner. Enter my Easy Baked Salmon Casserole Recipe, a delightful dish that transforms ordinary ingredients into something heartwarming and nourishing. The moment the casserole bubbles in the oven, the comforting aroma fills my kitchen, evoking memories of family gatherings and unhurried meals.

What I love about this recipe is its versatility; it's easily adaptable to whatever you have on hand, whether you're in the mood for a gluten-free twist or want to sneak in some extra veggies. This creamy, cheesy delight delivers a satisfying crunch on top and packs a punch of omega-3s, making it a guilt-free choice for busy weeknights.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let's create a dish that's sure to please everyone at the table!

Why will you love this Easy Baked Salmon Casserole Recipe?

Comforting flavors: This dish captures the essence of home-cooked goodness, with a creamy base and a crunchy topping that everyone will adore.
Quick prep: Ready in under an hour, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a wholesome meal without the fuss.
Versatile ingredients: Swap in your favorite veggies or proteins. From gluten-free to dairy-free variations, it adapts to your dietary needs seamlessly.
Omega-3 rich: Packed with wholesome salmon, it’s not just delicious but also provides important health benefits for you and your family.
Crowd-pleasing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, this casserole is sure to impress and satisfy everyone's taste buds!

Easy Baked Salmon Casserole Ingredients

• Discover the delicious components!

For the Pasta

Shell Pasta – Main carb source; substitute with whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles for a healthier option.
Shredded Carrots – Adds sweetness and bright color; pre-cook with pasta for maximum ease.

For the Creamy Base

Condensed Cream of Celery Soup – Provides creaminess; replace with homemade white sauce or cashew cream for a fresher, less processed choice.
Mayonnaise – Contributes flavor and creaminess; no substitutions needed, but feel free to adjust to personal taste.
Milk – Adds moisture; use any milk type; non-dairy options like almond or oat milk work beautifully, too.
Cheese – Enhances richness and flavor; swap for dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version without losing taste.

For the Veggies

Frozen Peas – Offers a pop of color and sweetness; fresh or canned can work if frozen peas aren't available.
Onion – Adds depth of flavor; this ingredient is optional, but I recommend it for a more savory taste.

For the Topping

Crushed Crackers – Adds a satisfying crunch on top; substitute with gluten-free crackers or a mix of almond flour and nutritional yeast for a gluten-free option.
Old Bay Seasoning – Brightens and enhances flavor; optional, but a fabulous addition for seafood lovers!
Chives/Parsley – Fresh garnish adds lovely color and brightness; also optional but definitely recommended for that finishing touch.

For the Protein

Salmon – The main star of this dish, rich in omega-3s; cooked tuna or chicken could work as alternatives if you want to switch things up.

This Easy Baked Salmon Casserole Recipe transforms simple ingredients into something truly special, making dinner a delightful affair!

How to Make Easy Baked Salmon Casserole

Preheat the oven to 350℉ (175℃). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.
Boil water in a large pot and cook the shell pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Add the shredded carrots halfway through for added sweetness and color.
Mix the creamy base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of celery soup, mayonnaise, milk, cheese, frozen peas, salmon, and onion (if using). Stir until all ingredients are well combined and creamy.
Drain the pasta and carrots and gently add them to the creamy mixture, tossing to evenly coat every piece with that delightful sauce.
Transfer the mixture to a 13x9-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. This allows the casserole to cook uniformly and get that beautiful texture you’ll love.
Top with crushed crackers for a satisfying crunch, then pop the dish in the oven for baking.
Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through. You'll know it's done when the top is golden and the sides start to lightly bubble.
Dust with Old Bay seasoning for an extra kick of flavor, and garnish with fresh chives or parsley for a touch of color right before serving.
Serve warm and enjoy the comforting deliciousness with your loved ones!

Optional: Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh zing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Easy Baked Salmon Casserole?

Looking to create a complete meal that delights the senses and satisfies the whole family?

Garlicky Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with fresh garlic bring a vibrant crunch and subtle earthiness that nicely complements the casserole's creaminess.
Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw with a tangy dressing offers a crunchy counterpoint, balancing the rich flavors of the salmon casserole perfectly.
Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Golden roasted potatoes, seasoned with herbs, add a hearty and filling side that pairs well with the lighter salmon dish while their texture contrasts beautifully.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon juice not only adds nutrition but also offers a fresh bite that elevates the overall meal experience. Enjoying it alongside the casserole enhances the meal's visual appeal, making it vibrant on the plate.
Herb Salad: A simple salad tossed with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing lift, cutting through the richness of the casserole while adding a pop of color to your dinner table.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio can bring out the salmon's flavors, making it an ideal drink companion for your meal.
Lemon Tart: For dessert, a light lemon tart serves as a wonderful sweet ending, balancing flavors after the savory richness of the casserole and leaving everyone satisfied.

Create a meal that feels both cozy and sophisticated with these perfect pairings!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing this Easy Baked Salmon Casserole ahead of time can save you precious minutes during hectic weeknights! You can mix the creamy base and toss in the al dente pasta and veggies up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When you're ready to bake, simply spread the mixture in your baking dish, top it with crushed crackers, and pop it in the oven to bake for 30-40 minutes. To maintain that perfect texture and flavor, ensure the pasta is cooked just until al dente before chilling, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, stress-free dinner with your family!

Expert Tips for Easy Baked Salmon Casserole

Perfect Pasta: Ensure pasta is al dente as it will continue to cook while baking; overcooked pasta can lead to a mushy casserole.
Mix Well: Combine all creamy base ingredients thoroughly to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the casserole.
Customize Ingredients: Experiment with your favorite vegetables or proteins; this easy baked salmon casserole recipe works well with various adaptations.
Season Smartly: Adjust seasoning based on personal preferences; if you switch fish or cheese, taste the mixture and adapt accordingly.
Enjoy Leftovers: This casserole keeps well, so consider making it ahead of time or saving leftovers for a quick reheatable meal enjoyed later.

Storage Tips for Easy Baked Salmon Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the casserole’s creamy goodness while keeping it fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole before baking in a well-sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking for optimal texture.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until thoroughly heated, ensuring it’s deliciously creamy.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the easy baked salmon casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking. You’ll have a comforting meal ready when you need it most!

Easy Baked Salmon Casserole Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own with delightful twists and swaps that cater to your family's tastes and preferences!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and crackers to enjoy this dish without the gluten. It’ll still be creamy and satisfying!
Dairy-Free: Swap regular cheese with a creamy dairy-free alternative and replace milk with almond or oat milk for a lighter touch.
Extra Veggies: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or steamed broccoli into the creamy mix. Adding veggies boosts nutrition and color!
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños for a touch of heat that can elevate the overall flavor profile.
Herb Blend: Instead of just chives or parsley, consider mixing in fresh dill or tarragon for an aromatic boost that enhances that seafood taste.
Different Protein: Swap the salmon for cooked chicken or even chickpeas for a protein-packed vegetarian option that still satisfies.
Cheesy Variations: Use a variety of cheeses like pepper jack for a zesty flavor or a combination of cheddar and mozzarella for richness.
Seasoning Change: Experiment with Cajun seasoning or lemon pepper instead of Old Bay for a fun twist that brings a new dimension to the classic flavor.

Get creative and embrace the inner chef within you! Each variation brings something unique to the table, making mealtime even more exciting.

Easy Baked Salmon Casserole Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right salmon for the casserole?
Absolutely! Look for fresh, vibrant salmon fillets with a moist appearance and no lingering fishy odor. If you're buying frozen salmon, choose high-quality, wild-caught options if possible. The flesh should be bright in color, and avoid any pieces with dark spots or discoloration.

How should I store leftovers of the baked salmon casserole?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To ensure optimal freshness and taste, make sure the container is sealed tightly. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 2 months. Just ensure it's well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn!

Can I freeze the easy baked salmon casserole? How?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking! Wrap the assembled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent air exposure. When you're ready to bake, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake it straight from the refrigerated state. If you're baking from frozen, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

What should I do if my casserole is too dry after baking?
If you find your casserole comes out a bit dry, it might be due to overcooked pasta or not enough moisture in your mixture. For the next time, ensure you mix your creamy ingredients well and keep the pasta slightly undercooked (al dente). Additionally, consider adding a little more milk or cream to the mixture to keep it luscious and creamy.

Can I adapt this recipe for gluten-free or dairy-free diets?
Very much so! For gluten-free versions, simply use gluten-free pasta and crackers. As for dairy-free options, substitute dairy cheese with a high-quality plant-based cheese and use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk. The beauty of this easy baked salmon casserole recipe is its adaptability for various dietary needs!

Is this dish safe for my pets?
Generally, salmon is safe for dogs when cooked without harmful additives (like onions), but it’s best to serve them plain, without any seasonings or sauces. However, always consult your vet before introducing new foods to your pet's diet, as every pet is different!