ABSOLUTE BEST TUNA CASSEROLE

My Tuna Casserole has the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty flavours that scream comfort food. Not only is it super easy to make with ingredients you most likely have in your pantry, it's also incredibly delicious . 

With the addition of golden sautéed onions and celery, thyme and a perfect blend of spices, my tuna casserole is an elevated version of the typical boring tuna casseroles from days past. 

So grab your apron and let's get cooking!

Makes 4-6 servings

INGREDIENTS

• 1 (500 gram) package pasta noodles of choice

• 2 (284 ml) cans condensed cream of mushroom or celery soup

• 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 2 (170 gram) cans tuna, drained

• 3/4 cup sour cream

• 1 cup frozen green peas or veggie blend

• 1 tbsp butter or oil

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 2 ribs celery, chopped

• 1/2 tsp seasoning salt

• 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning

• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

• 1/4 tsp red chili flakes

• 1/2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/4 tsp dry)

• 1 cup retained pasta water

• 1 cup crushed potato chips

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. 

2. Cook pasta according to package instructions minus one minute for Al dente firmness. Drain, retaining 1 cup pasta water. 

3. Heat butter or oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onions and celery until golden. Add red chili flakes and thyme. Stir and remove from pan. Set aside. 

4. In a large mixing bowl, mix cooked noodles, soup, 1/2 of the cheese, tuna, frozen vegetables, sour cream, sautéed onions and celery, retained pasta water, garlic powder, seasoning salt and Cajun seasoning in a large bowl until well combined. 

5. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. 

6. Top with crushed potato chips and remaining cheese. 

7. Bake in the preheated oven until cheese is bubbly, about 15 to 20 minutes. 

8. Serve hot and enjoy!