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Classic Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole Easy Homemade Recipe with Crispy Topping

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A comforting and creamy tuna noodle casserole topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or unexpected guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces egg noodles
  • 2 cans (5 ounces each) tuna in water, drained
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • 1/3 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until just al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain well and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste and starts to bubble but does not brown.
  4. Slowly whisk in the milk and broth gradually, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Add the Dijon mustard and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, drained tuna, peas, chopped onion, minced garlic, and creamy cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  8. In a small bowl, toss panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook noodles as they will continue cooking in the oven. Stir constantly when adding milk to avoid lumps. Use good-quality tuna to avoid fishy taste. Tent casserole with foil if topping browns too quickly. Can substitute peas with green beans or corn. For gluten-free, use gluten-free flour, pasta, and breadcrumbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: tuna noodle casserole, creamy tuna casserole, comfort food, casserole recipe, easy dinner, crispy topping

Find it online: https://sparklechew.com/classic-creamy-tuna-noodle-casserole-easy-homemade-recipe-with-crispy-topping/