Description
This classic tuna casserole is elevated with a creamy homemade white sauce and a crunchy topping, offering a comforting and flavorful meal. It’s a delightful dish for weeknights, potlucks, or any occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
- 200g (7oz) Elbow Macaroni: The base of the casserole, cooked al dente.
- 400g (14oz) Canned Tuna in Water, Drained: Provides lean protein.
- 300ml (1 ¼ cup) Whole Milk: Creates a rich white sauce.
- 30g (2 Tbsp) Unsalted Butter: Used to make the roux.
- 30g (¼ cup) All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the milk into a sauce.
- 100g (1 cup) Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds a bold, cheesy flavor.
- 50g (½ cup) Grated Parmesan Cheese: Provides umami and salty depth.
- 1 Small Onion, Finely Diced: Adds subtle sweetness.
- 1 Clove Garlic, Minced: Adds savory flavor.
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky twist.
- ½ tsp Ground Black Pepper: Adds warmth and spice.
- ½ tsp Salt: Enhances flavors.
- ½ cup (60g) Panko Breadcrumbs: Creates a crunchy topping.
- 2 Tbsp (30ml) Olive Oil: Binds breadcrumbs.
- 2 Tbsp (30g) Fresh Parsley, Chopped: Adds freshness.
- Zest of ½ Lemon: Adds a citrusy finish.
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F) and grease a casserole dish.
- Cook Macaroni: Boil macaroni for 8-9 minutes until al dente, then drain.
- Make Roux: Melt butter, whisk in flour, and cook for 2 minutes.
- Create White Sauce: Gradually whisk in milk, simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Cheese It Up: Stir in cheddar, Parmesan, paprika, pepper, and salt.
- Add Flavor & Protein: Add onion, garlic, and tuna; heat through.
- Combine & Transfer: Fold in macaroni and transfer to dish.
- Prepare Topping: Toss panko with olive oil and Parmesan.
- Bake to Perfection: Sprinkle topping and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Rest & Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a crispier topping, ensure even oil and Parmesan coating on the panko breadcrumbs. Feel free to add frozen peas or mushrooms to the sauce for extra vegetables.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg