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Ultimate Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole: Pure Happiness

Cheesy tuna noodle casserole

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This recipe creates an extra cheesy tuna noodle casserole with multiple cheese layers for a wonderfully melty and comforting bake. It’s a simple, heartwarming dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces wide egg noodles
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely choppped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried dill
  • 2 (5 ounce) cans tuna, drained
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. While the noodles cook, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth until smooth.
  4. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring frequently, until it thickens. Stir in the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dill.
  5. Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the drained tuna, frozen peas, 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup of Gruyere cheese until well combined.
  6. Add the cooked noodles to the sauce and gently toss to coat.
  7. Pour the tuna noodle mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  8. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
  9. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of Gruyere cheese over the breadcrumbs.
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and melted.
  11. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For an even richer flavor, you can use a combination of different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Swiss.
  • If you prefer a creamier casserole, you can add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
  • To make this ahead of time, assemble the casserole and refrigerate, then bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

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