Tuna Casserole with Peas and Carrots

This is a timeless classic that’s both comforting and delicious. This Tuna casserole dish combines tender egg noodles, succulent tuna, and a velvety cream sauce, all crowned with a crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s a heartwarming meal that’ll satisfy your cravings for a home-cooked favorite.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces wide egg noodles
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup diced white onion
• 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 ½ cups mixed frozen peas and diced carrots
• 2 cans (5 ounces each) chunk light tuna in water, well-drained
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 4 ounces)

Topping:

• ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
• Fresh parsley leaves, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Ensure they are al dente, then drain and rinse them under cold water. Set them aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the flour to the skillet and stir for 30 seconds to eliminate any raw flour taste. Gradually add the chicken broth and milk while stirring constantly. Include salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Continue to cook, stirring often, for approximately 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the frozen peas and carrots, drained tuna, shredded cheddar cheese, and cooked egg noodles. Transfer this mixture to a 13×9-inch baking dish.
6. For the topping, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon of melted butter in a medium bowl. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the casserole.
7. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven, uncovered, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the casserole is heated throughout, and the topping achieves a beautiful golden-brown color.
8. Once ready, serve it hot, optionally garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

• Calories: 344 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 19g
• Fat: 15g

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used.

Cooking Tips

• For a lighter version, you can use whole-grain noodles and low-fat cheese without sacrificing flavor.
• While the recipe suggests using panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese for the topping, feel free to get creative. Try crushed potato chips, crumbled crackers, or even a sprinkle of grated cheddar for a unique twist.