Broccoli Tuna Casserole
Ingredients
- 5 cups uncooked whole wheat egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon butter
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 cups fat-free milk
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
divided
- 4 cups frozen broccoli florets
thawed
- 2 pouches albacore white tuna in water
6.4 ounces each
- 1/3 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter
melted
Directions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350°. Cook noodles according to package directions; drain. Transfer to a shallow 3-qt. or 13x9-in. baking dish coated with cooking spray.
- 2
Meanwhile, in a large nonstick skillet, heat butter over medium-high heat. Add onion; cook and stir until tender. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch, milk and seasonings until smooth; stir into pan. Stir in broth. Bring to a boil; cook and stir until thickened, about 2 minutes. Stir in 3/4 cup cheese until melted; stir in broccoli and tuna.
- 3
Spoon over noodles; mix well. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Toss bread crumbs with melted butter; sprinkle over casserole. Bake, covered, 45 minutes. Uncover and bake until cheese is melted, 15-20 minutes longer.
Broccoli Tuna Casserole
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About this Recipe
Craving a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug? This Broccoli Tuna Casserole, a cherished recipe with a heartwarming story, delivers on nostalgic flavor and satisfying goodness for your family dinner.
Originally shared by a co-worker's wife during a Navy deployment, this casserole has been lovingly tweaked over the years, retaining its essence as a 'family' favorite. It masterfully combines tender noodles, savory tuna, and vibrant broccoli in a rich, creamy sauce, offering both convenience and deep, comforting taste that brings back happy memories.
Prepare for a dish that’s both wonderfully creamy and incredibly satisfying. You'll find hearty whole wheat egg noodles bathed in a savory sauce, brightened by the earthy notes of dried basil and dried thyme. Each forkful brings together flakey albacore tuna and tender broccoli florets, all crowned with a golden, crispy panko topping. It’s a hearty, flavorful meal that evokes the simple joy of home-cooked comfort, perfect for sharing around the table.
Customization & Variations
While delicious as is, this Broccoli Tuna Casserole is also wonderfully adaptable. You could experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or a sharp white cheese if Monterey Jack isn't on hand. For a richer sauce, use whole milk instead of fat-free milk. Different types of canned fish, such as salmon, could also be a delicious swap for the albacore white tuna, offering a new flavor profile while keeping the comforting casserole feel. If you prefer, regular bread crumbs can be used instead of panko for the topping.
This classic casserole is the ultimate weeknight meal or a comforting dish to bring to a potluck. Serve it as a stand-alone main course, perhaps alongside a simple green salad to balance the richness.