Well, butter my biscuit! Today, I’m going to let the cat out of the bag about one of my favorite dishes to cook up for my loved ones – the hearty, nutritious, and incredibly delicious Tuna Noodle Casserole! Nothing warms the cockles of my heart quite like seeing family and friends tucking into this savory comfort food with vigor.
Now, don’t get your panties in a twist, even if you’re green around the gills when it comes to cooking. Preparing Tuna Noodle Casserole, my friend, is as easy as pie. Plus, it’s a dish that’s chock-full of wholesome goodness without costing an arm and a leg. Score!
First off, I can’t stress enough the importance of picking the right ingredients. You don’t want to count your chickens before they hatch, but getting fresh and quality ingredients is half the battle won. I always go for organic veggies and whole grain pasta. As for the star — the tuna — opt for the best quality canned tuna you can afford. It’ll make a whale of a difference, I promise.
Next, it’s time to channel your inner chef and break out the pots and pans. You’ll sauté the veggies, whip up a mouth-watering cream sauce, and mix in the tuna and pasta. Don’t be a ninny – make sure you season it to your family’s liking. Then bake it till it’s golden and bubbling, with the scent wafting through your home that’s enough to have ’em salivating!
So, why not roll up your sleeves and take a stab at this delicious recipe sure to impress any guest? After all, the proof is in the pudding—or should I say—in the Tuna Noodle Casserole! Yum!
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Start by boiling about 8 ounces of whole grain pasta until it’s al dente. Then drain and set aside.
- In a large sauté pan, add a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Toss in one diced onion and two diced celery stalks, sauté until they’re soft and fragrant.
- Stir in two minced cloves of garlic, and cook for another minute.
- Sprinkle in two tablespoons of flour and stir continuously to cook off the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in two cups of milk, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce.
- Let this simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Take the pan off the heat and add in one cup of grated cheddar cheese. Stir until it’s well incorporated and creamy.
- Now, for the star of the show – add two cans of drained tuna.
- Mix in your cooked pasta and a cup of defrosted peas. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Pour everything into a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle over a mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese – this will create a tasty, crunchy topping.
- Pop the casserole in the oven and bake for around 20-25 minutes, or until it’s golden and bubbling.
- Let it cool slightly before serving, and voila! Tuck into your scrumptious Tuna Noodle Casserole.
- Enjoy this hearty meal with your family and friends.
That was fresh!