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just another tuna casserole -- not

(2 ratings)
Recipe by
Gary Hancq
Port Byron, IL

Now and then I get a hunger for just such fare. I figured I'd do it up a little different this time around. Note: Betty Graves' Tuna and Noodle Casserole inspired this one. I'll try hers next. The Cream Cheese, Mixed Veggies and Grated Italian 6 Cheeses and Shredded Parmesan did the trick. It was a hit. I noted various brands used, as I often do. That way I can duplicate it to a tee. The noodle selection was excellent and I have used them for Beef Tips and Noodles, for my Salmon Noodle Soup and for Chicken Soup. For soups I crumple them slightly before cooking to make them more suited to the spoon when serving soup. Happy Cooking.

(2 ratings)
yield serving(s)
prep time 20 Min
cook time 1 Hr 20 Min
method Bake

Ingredients For just another tuna casserole -- not

  • 1 pkg
    12 0z. wide noodles (kalona noodles- old fashined amish country)
  • 1 pkg
    6.4 oz. tuna in water (vacuum sealed - our family, foil pack)
  • 1 1/2 c
    frozen steamy veggies -- (jewel)
  • 3 Tbsp
    extra virgin olive oil, divided (or any oil)
  • 1/2 tsp
    salt
  • THE SAUCE
  • 1 pkg
    8 oz. philly cream cheese
  • 2/3 c
    shredded italian 6 cheese
  • 2/3 c
    shredded parmesan cheese
  • 1 c
    milk
  • OPTIONAL
  • 1/3 c
    panko crisp bread crumbs to top
  • 1 Tbsp
    evoo drizzled on top

How To Make just another tuna casserole -- not

  • 1
    When water is at a simmer add 1 teaspoon oil and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook noodles per package directions. I boiled for about 10 minutes, after water came to a boil. Note: Salt will pit Stainless Steel Cookware if added before water comes to a boil.
  • 2
    In a small bowl microwave the 1 1/2 cups of mixed veggies (mine were Broccoli, Onion, Mushroom and Sweet Red Peppers mix), with one pat butter. They worked excellently.
  • 3
    In medium bowl add 8 oz. Cream Cheese, and 1/2 cup of the milk. Microwave 2/12 minutes, then stir well. Cream cheese should be melted quite well if not microwave a little more. Add the 2/3 cups of Shredded 6 Cheese Italian and 2/3 cups Shredded Parmesan and stir to melt shredded cheese. When melted add the other 1/2 cup of milk and mix well.
  • 4
    Drain noodle when done to desired state. Drizzle on 1 tablespoon of EVOO or 3 pats of butter, and stir well gently.
  • 5
    Lightly oil your baking dish or pan. I used a 9"by 13" glass cake dish. Pre-heat oven to 325 degrees.
  • 6
    Add Noodles, Veggies and Tuna to dish and stir well. Add the Cheese and Milk mixture and stir and combine gently.
  • 7
    I top with 1/3 cup Panko Plain Bread Crumbs and drizzle with Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
  • 8
    Bake at 325 degrees for 30 to 40 minutes. You could cover with foil, (I chose not to. Noodles did not dry out or over cook on top).
  • 9
    Serve with a side or salad and some great French or Italian Bread. Enjoy. This will hold up to an additional bit of milk to moistene when reheating leftovers.
  • 10
    Note: Kalona Noodles is the brand name. In a cellophane bag. An excellent noodle.
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