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Cozy Tuna Casserole with Peas

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A quick and easy homemade classic comfort recipe featuring creamy sauce, tender noodles, and sweet peas, perfect for cozy nights and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni or small pasta shells (uncooked)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk (can substitute almond or oat milk for dairy-free)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 (5-ounce) cans canned tuna, drained
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder (optional)
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups (about 7 ounces) of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced small yellow onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. The mixture should bubble gently but not brown.
  4. Gradually pour in 2 cups (16 fl oz) of whole milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of dry mustard powder (if using), salt, and black pepper to taste.
  5. Remove the sauce from heat and fold in 1 cup (about 4 ounces) of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. If sauce seems too thick, thin with a splash more milk.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the cooked pasta, drained canned tuna (about 10 ounces total), frozen peas (1 cup), and the creamy cheese sauce. Mix carefully to avoid breaking up the tuna too much. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional) and a small pinch of salt and pepper.
  8. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top for a crunchy finish.
  9. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly around the edges.
  10. Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes after baking to set up slightly before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; al dente holds better in casserole. Drain tuna well to avoid watery casserole. Use sharp cheddar for best flavor. If topping browns too fast, tent with foil halfway through baking. For gluten-free, substitute pasta and flour accordingly. Add sour cream or Greek yogurt for creamier texture. Fresh peas can be blanched and used instead of frozen.

Nutrition

Keywords: tuna casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, creamy tuna pasta, peas, quick casserole, homemade tuna casserole

Find it online: https://elvafood.com/cozy-tuna-casserole-with-peas-easy-homemade-classic-comfort-recipe/