Tuna Noodle Casserole by Chef John

Introduction

• Chef John from FoodWishes.com presents Tuna Noodle Casserole
• Known as a king of comfort food casseroles
• Does not require cream of mushroom soup
• Maintains creamy and decadent goodness

Cooking Process

Sautéing Onions

• Sauté onions in butter over medium heat with a pinch of salt
• Cook for 3-4 minutes until onions are soft and translucent
• Use a whisk to prepare for sauce-making

Making the Roux

• Stir in flour to create a roux (paste made from butter and flour)
• Cook roux for 3 minutes to remove raw flour taste
• Keep heat on medium; avoid browning mixture

Creating the White Sauce

• Add cold milk to hot roux; whisk to avoid lumps
• Increase heat to medium-high, bring to simmer
• Sauce thickens at the simmer point
• Turn off heat, whisk in shredded white cheddar cheese
• Reserve sauce once done

Preparing Egg Noodles

• Boil egg noodles in salted water for 5 minutes (1 min less than package instructions)
• Drain noodles well; transfer to mixing bowl

Mixing Ingredients

• Add hot sauce to noodles, mix quickly
• Add crumbled tuna (3 cans of tuna in olive oil)
• Add a cup of thawed, drained green peas
• Season with salt, cayenne, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce
• Ensure mixture is not too thick

Assembling the Casserole

Preparing the Baking Dish

• Use a 9x13 inch buttered baking dish
• Transfer mixture to the dish

Making the Crumb Topping

• Mix breadcrumbs with grated parmesan and olive oil or melted butter
• Spread mixture over casserole evenly
• Alternative topping: Crushed potato chips

Baking Instructions

• Bake in the center of a 375°F oven for about 30 minutes
• Look for golden brown top and bubbling edges
• Let rest for 10 minutes before serving

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a green salad
• Garnish is optional
• Enjoy the comforting, satisfying texture of the casserole

Conclusion

• Tuna Noodle Casserole is decadent, not too heavy
• Features crispy cheesy crumb topping
• Chef John prefers it over mac and cheese
• Encourages trying the recipe