Tuna Casserole with Elbow Macaroni
Tuna casserole with elbow macaroni is a classic dish that is both comforting and delicious. Made with pantry staples like canned tuna and elbow macaroni, it is an easy, budget-friendly meal that can be whipped up in no time. This hearty casserole is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces elbow macaroni
– 2 cans (6 ounces each) tuna, drained
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup bread crumbs
– Cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
4. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble.
5. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Add the drained tuna, frozen peas, and cooked macaroni to the skillet. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated with the sauce.
7. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Transfer the tuna and macaroni mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
8. Sprinkle the bread crumbs over the top of the casserole.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the bread crumbs are golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
This recipe serves about 6-8 people and can be easily doubled for larger gatherings. It takes approximately 45 minutes to prepare and cook this delicious tuna casserole with elbow macaroni. Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of this classic dish!