Tuna Noodle Nirvana

Calling all comfort food connoisseurs on a tight budget! This Tuna Noodle Casserole is about to become your new weeknight go-to. It’s a symphony of creamy cheesy goodness, flaked tuna, and tender noodles, all for under $5. Yes, you read that right – deliciousness doesn’t have to drain your wallet!

Here’s what you’ll need for this magical dish:

• 8 ounces of egg noodles – any shape you like!
• 2 cans (5 ounces each) of tuna – drained, of course
• 1 cup of frozen peas – little pops of veggie goodness
• 1 cup of sliced mushrooms (optional) – add some earthy depth if you’re feeling fancy
• ½ cup of diced onion – for a touch of sharpness
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced – don’t be shy, garlic lovers!
• 2 tablespoons of butter – to add richness
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour – our thickening agent
• 1 ½ cups of milk – for a creamy base
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese – get ready for melty goodness!
• ½ cup of breadcrumbs – for a crispy topping
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential for flavor magic
• Optional extras: crushed potato chips or French fried onions – for an extra textural punch

Let’s bake some comfort food magic!

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grab a 9×13 inch baking dish. Give it a good greasing so nothing sticks.
2. Time to cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente – that means tender but still with a bite. Drain the noodles and set them aside for now.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt that butter. Add the diced onion and sliced mushrooms (if you’re using them) and cook until they’re softened and fragrant – about 5 minutes. Then toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute or two.
4. Here comes the flour! Sprinkle it over the veggies and stir it all together until it’s well combined. Cook for another minute or two to get rid of that raw flour taste.
5. Now for the creamy magic. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid any lumps forming. Let it simmer and thicken up for 3-4 minutes.
6. Time to add that cheesy goodness! Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and smooth. Don’t forget to season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Now that the sauce is perfect, add the drained tuna, cooked noodles, and frozen peas to the party. Give it a good stir to coat everything in that delicious cheese sauce.
8. Transfer this yummy mixture to your greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
9. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a drizzle of melted butter. This will be your crispy topping! Sprinkle it evenly over the casserole.
10. Bake it in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. You know it’s done when it’s all melty, bubbly, and smells incredible.
11. Take that deliciousness out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Nobody likes burnt tongues!
12. Serve your Tuna Noodle Nirvana hot, and if you’re feeling adventurous, top it with some crushed potato chips or French fried onions for an extra crunch.

There you have it! A comforting, budget-friendly classic that will satisfy your taste buds without hurting your wallet. Enjoy this Tuna Noodle Nirvana with your family and friends!