Tuna Noodle Casserole

 

Tuna Noodle Casserole made from scratch, without using canned soup. This version features a creamy béchamel sauce and is perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 12 oz egg noodles
• 2 ( or 3) cans (10 oz total) tuna in oil or water, drained
• 1 bag frozen peas (optional)
• 2 jars pimientos
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Béchamel Sauce

• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 cup diced celery
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon coriander
• ½ teaspoon white pepper
• ½ teaspoon dry mustard

Optional Toppings

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for breadcrumbs)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the egg noodles and cook until al dente, about 1 minute less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Béchamel Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and celery; sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until it smells toasted.
4. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking while whisking until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, drained tuna, frozen peas, and shredded cheese.
2. Pour the béchamel sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish.
3. If using, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
4. Bake for about 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.