Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Crunchy Topping

Tuna Noodle CasserolePhoto byFood Fusion Frenzy

Tuna noodle casserole is a classic comfort food that has been a staple in many households for generations. This dish combines tender egg noodles, savory tuna, and a creamy sauce, all topped with a crunchy breadcrumb topping.

Get the Recipe Details: Tuna Noodle Casserole

Ingredients

• 10 ounces wide egg noodles
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large shallots, diced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 ½ cups half and half
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 8 ounces shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
• 3 (5-ounce) cans of tuna in water, drained
• 1 cup frozen green peas, rinsed
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• ⅓ cup Panko breadcrumbs
• ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Cooking the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Making the Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced shallots, and cook until fragrant and translucent, about 2 minutes. Whisk in the flour and cook for another minute until lightly browned. Gradually stir in the half and half and Dijon mustard, cooking until the sauce is slightly thickened, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Combining Ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add the drained tuna and frozen peas, mixing well. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5. Assembling the Casserole: In a large bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles with the tuna mixture. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and olive oil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Baking: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
7. Serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh chives before serving.

Conclusion

This tuna noodle casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that brings together the creamy richness of the sauce, the savory flavor of tuna, and the satisfying crunch of the breadcrumb topping. It’s an easy and versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your tastes and preferences. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the nostalgic flavors and the warmth of this classic comfort food!