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Cheddar Tuna Noodle Bake

Creamy Cheddar Tuna Noodle Bake for Ultimate Comfort

This Cheddar Tuna Noodle Bake is a comforting dish that combines creamy sauce, noodles, and tender tuna, perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Noodles
  • 12 oz Wide Egg Noodles can substitute with rotini or penne
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas can use diced carrots or corn
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter can substitute with margarine
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour can use cornstarch with cold milk for gluten-free
  • 2 cups Whole Milk can use 2% milk for a lighter version
  • 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese can substitute with Gruyère
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder fresh garlic can be used as a substitute
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • to taste Black Pepper freshly cracked enhances the dish
For the Protein
  • 2 cans Tuna can substitute with canned salmon or shredded chicken
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs can substitute with crushed Ritz crackers
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese can use lemon zest for brightness

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large pot
  • Medium-sized bowl
  • Saucepan

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the wide egg noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water for 2 minutes less than package instructions, then drain.
  3. Prepare the Panko topping by mixing breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese. Set aside.
  4. Make the cheese sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour to form a roux, then gradually adding milk until thickened.
  5. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper until melted.
  6. Combine cooked noodles, peas, and drained tuna in a large bowl, then fold in the cheese sauce.
  7. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with the Panko topping, and smooth the top.
  8. Bake for approximately 20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
  9. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with a salad or garlic bread.

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese and undercook the noodles. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days.