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Crispy Cheesy Tuna Melt Casserole

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A warm, comforting casserole combining flaky tuna, melted cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (5 oz / 142 g) cans of tuna in water, drained and flaked
  • ½ cup (120 g) mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 cup (120 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
  • 1 small red onion, finely diced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 3 cups (240 g) cooked elbow macaroni or small pasta (or gluten-free pasta)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk (or dairy-free alternative like oat milk)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free option)
  • 1 cup (100 g) panko breadcrumbs (plain or whole wheat)
  • ½ cup (60 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 3 cups (240 g) elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  4. Slowly pour in 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk while whisking constantly. Cook until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup (120 g) shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  6. In a large bowl, combine drained, flaked tuna, ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, chopped celery, diced red onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  7. Gently fold in the cheese sauce and cooked pasta until well coated, being careful not to overmix.
  8. Transfer mixture to the greased baking dish and spread evenly.
  9. In a small bowl, mix 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, ½ cup shredded mozzarella, 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan, and 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter.
  10. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.
  11. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  12. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  13. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Gently fold tuna mixture to keep tuna flaky. Use panko breadcrumbs for a crispy topping. If topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil halfway through baking. Let casserole rest 5 minutes before serving for easier slicing. Can substitute Greek yogurt for mayo or smoked gouda for cheddar. For dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives and avocado instead of mayo.

Nutrition

Keywords: tuna casserole, cheesy tuna melt, comfort food, casserole recipe, easy dinner, family meal, baked tuna, crispy topping

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/crispy-cheesy-tuna-melt-casserole-recipe-easy-homemade-comfort-meal/