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Irresistible Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe for Easy Comfort

tuna noodle casserole - featured image

This creamy and comforting tuna noodle casserole is a healthier twist on a classic dish, perfect for busy weeknights or nostalgic family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz egg noodles (whole wheat or regular)
  • 2 cans canned tuna, drained (packed in water)
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk (2% or whole milk)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: A pinch of paprika or garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden and bubbly.
  4. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps. Stir in the milk and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until melted and smooth.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, tuna, peas, and cheese sauce. Mix gently to coat everything evenly.
  7. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Spread evenly.
  8. Top with remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese and sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
  9. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to crisp the topping.
  10. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

[‘Don’t overcook the noodles to prevent them from becoming mushy in the casserole.’, ‘Use room-temperature tuna for better blending.’, ‘Mix breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter for extra crunch.’, ‘Customize the sauce with white wine or Dijon mustard for added flavor.’, ‘Turn on the broiler for 1-2 minutes if the topping isn’t browning.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: tuna noodle casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, healthy casserole, family recipe, quick meal, creamy casserole