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heesy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole: Creamy Comfort in Every Bite

This cheesy tuna noodle casserole combines creamy goodness with tender noodles, perfect for family dinners in just 15 minutes of prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 12 ounces Wide Egg Noodles Substitute with medium shells or rotini if preferred.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is ideal, but dried garlic can work in a pinch.
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
For Flavoring
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Swap with white pepper if you want a less visible option.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Smoked Paprika You can use regular paprika or omit it if desired.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Dried Dill Fresh dill will add a vibrant touch if available.
For the Filling
  • 2 5-ounce cans Canned Tuna Make sure to drain well to prevent sogginess.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Consider using Monterey Jack or a cheese blend if you want variety.
  • 1 cup Shredded Gruyere Cheese Swiss cheese is a suitable alternative.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Fresh peas can also be a delightful option.
For the Crunchy Topping
  • 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Regular breadcrumbs can be used but won't be as crunchy.
  • 2 tablespoons Melted Butter Consider olive oil for a lighter option.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet
  • 9×13-inch baking dish

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add 12 ounces of wide egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-9 minutes. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside.
  2. In a spacious skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in 1 medium chopped yellow onion and cook until soft and translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional minute.
  3. Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, stirring continuously for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk and 1 cup of chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
  4. Once your sauce is thickened, season it by adding 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon of dried dill. Stir well to incorporate all the spices evenly.
  5. Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the drained tuna, 1 cup of frozen peas, and half of each cheese, which includes 1 cup of shredded cheddar and 1 cup of shredded Gruyere. Add the cooked noodles and gently mix until everything is well combined.
  6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare your dish. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little butter. Transfer the noodle mixture into the baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  7. In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
  8. Bake your Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  9. After removing the casserole from the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Well-drained tuna is essential to prevent a watery casserole. Aim for al dente noodles and taste sauce before final seasoning.

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