Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) egg noodles
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 3 cups (710ml) whole milk
- 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground nutmeg (optional)
- 2 cups (225g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Two 5-ounce (142g) cans tuna in water, drained
- 1 cup (150g) frozen peas, thawed
- 1/2 cup (75g) diced pimentos, drained (optional)
- 1 cup (80g) crushed potato chips
- 2 tablespoons (28g) melted butter
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until a smooth paste (a roux) forms.
- Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in salt, pepper, nutmeg (if using), and 1 cup of cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Gently fold in the drained tuna, peas, and pimentos (if using) into the cheese sauce.
- Add the cooked noodles to the sauce and stir gently to combine.
- Pour the noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine crushed potato chips with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the casserole, followed by the potato chip topping.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your Tuna Noodle Casserole!