JUST ANOTHER TUNA CASSEROLE -- NOT

Just Another Tuna Casserole -- Not image

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...

Provided by Gary Hancq

Time 1h40m

Number Of Ingredients 13

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Ingredients

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

Steps:

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.