Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole

This Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a comforting and delicious meal that combines tender egg noodles, creamy tuna sauce, and a crispy panko topping. It’s perfect for family dinners and easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients:

• 1 pound egg noodles
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 white onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups frozen peas
• 2 (6 ounce) cans solid white albacore tuna
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2-3 teaspoons olive oil

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
5. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
6. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Then, add the milk and continue to whisk until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken.
7. Stir in the frozen peas and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
8. Drain the cans of tuna and flake the tuna into the sauce. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and combined.
9. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles with the sauce, mixing until the noodles are evenly coated.
10. Transfer the noodle mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
11. In a small bowl, mix together the panko bread crumbs, grated parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
13. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this casserole with a side of green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It’s also delicious with a slice of crusty bread.

Cooking Tips:

• Make sure to whisk the sauce continuously to avoid lumps.
• For added flavor, you can mix in some cooked bacon or a dash of hot sauce.
• If you prefer a creamier casserole, use whole milk or add a bit of heavy cream.

Nutritional Benefits:

• High in protein from the tuna and cheese.
• Provides a good source of fiber from the peas and egg noodles.
• Contains essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and dairy.

Dietary Information:

• Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free noodles and flour.
• Contains dairy and fish.

Storage:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Comforting and hearty, perfect for family meals.
• Easy to make with simple ingredients.
• The combination of creamy sauce and crispy topping is irresistible.

Conclusion:

This Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy, cheesy goodness combined with a crunchy topping makes it a family favorite. Enjoy this comforting casserole and savor its delightful flavors!