Introduction
Step into the world of comforting and wholesome dishes with Tuna Noodle Casserole. This classic recipe combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Why Make This Recipe
Tuna Noodle Casserole is not only delicious but also budget-friendly and easy to make. With pantry staples like canned tuna, noodles, and peas, you can whip up a hearty and nutritious dish in no time. It’s a great way to feed your family without breaking the bank.
How to Make Tuna Noodle Casserole
Ingredients:
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 7 ounces dried egg noodles
- 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas
- ¼ cup (½ stick / 56 g) salted butter
- ¼ cup (31 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon basil
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 dash thyme
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 3½ cups (857.5 g) whole milk
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna packed in water, drained and flaked
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter and breadcrumbs, set aside.
- Cook egg noodles in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Cook peas in boiling water until tender.
- In a medium pot over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour, basil, oregano, thyme, and salt. Whisk constantly for one minute.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and stir constantly.
- When the sauce boils, lower the heat to simmer and whisk constantly until thickened.
- Remove from heat, add parmesan cheese, and stir to combine.
- Fold in drained noodles, peas, and tuna.
- Pour into a baking dish and sprinkle with the breadcrumb topping. Bake for 20 minutes. Let rest before serving.
How to Serve Tuna Noodle Casserole
Serve this warm and creamy casserole straight from the oven, paired with a side salad or some crusty bread. It makes for a satisfying and complete meal that will surely please everyone at the table.
How to Store Tuna Noodle Casserole
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.
Tips to Make Tuna Noodle Casserole
- Be gentle when folding in the tuna to avoid breaking it up too much.
- Customize the herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
- Feel free to add extra veggies like carrots or bell peppers for added crunch and nutrition.
Variation
For a twist on the classic recipe, try using different types of pasta such as penne or rotini. You can also experiment with adding different cheese blends or topping the casserole with a crispy breadcrumb and cheese mixture.
FAQs
- Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna? Fresh tuna can be used, but it may alter the cooking time and texture of the casserole.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve.
- Can I substitute the peas with another vegetable? Yes, you can use green beans, corn, or broccoli as alternatives to peas in this casserole recipe.
