Ingredients and Weight:
- Noodles: 500 grams (approximately 1 pound)
- Tuna: 200 grams (7 oz) canned tuna in water or oil
- Bechamel Sauce: 3 cups (recipe follows)
- Carrots: 1 large carrot, chopped fine
- Peas: 1 cup, fresh or frozen
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (or as desired)
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded or cubed
- Butter: 3 tablespoons
- Milk: 2 cups
- Flour: 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 45 minutes (including prep and cooking time)
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty, suitable for home chefs with basic cooking skills)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Prepare the bechamel sauce by mixing butter, flour, and milk in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and stir until thickened. Set aside.
- In a separate pot, cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- While the noodles are cooking, heat the carrots and peas in a steamer or microwave until tender. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, tuna, bechamel sauce, cooked vegetables, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into an oven-safe baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Place in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through.
- Remove from the oven and let stand for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 8 servings total)
Calories: Approximately 400 calories per serving (depending on ingredients used)
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 20g
Dish Characteristics:
- Comfort food with a creamy bechamel sauce and rich flavor profile.
- Tuna adds a seafood touch to the traditional dish.
- Versatile dish that can be easily customized with different vegetables or seasonings.
User Comments:
- "This dish was a hit with my family! The bechamel sauce was creamy and delicious." - John Doe
- "I love how easy this recipe is to make, yet it tastes like a five-star dish." - Jane Smith
- "The tuna added a nice seafood flavor to the traditional noodle casserole." - Michael Johnson
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Make sure to use fresh or frozen vegetables for best results. If using canned vegetables, drain them before using to remove excess liquid.
- Adjust seasoning according to preference. Start with the recommended amounts and add more salt or pepper if desired.
- For best results, use a good quality cheese for the topping. Cheddar cheese adds a rich flavor and helps bind the casserole together.
