Recipes

Tuna Noodle Casserole with Leeks and Fresh Dill

2 Mins read
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Introduction

The “Tuna Noodle Casseroayer with Leeks and Fresh Dill” is a delightful fusion of classic casserole elements with a twist of leek-infused flavors, complemented by the freshness of dill. Its creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it an excellent choice for family meals or casual gatherings where comfort food reigns supreme.

Tips for this recipe

When preparing the “Tuna Noodle Casseroley with Leeks,” ensure that the leeks are well-cleaned to remove any dirt trapped between their layers. Additionally, gently fold in the tuna and potato chips to maintain their texture without overcooking them.

Why you will love this recipe

The “Tuna Noodle Casseroley with Leeks and Fresh Dill” offers a unique combination of flavors that elevates the humble tuna noodle casserole to new heights. Its hearty components ensure fullness, while leeks provide a mild onion-like sweetness that balances well with dill’s fresh notes. It promises an unforgettable taste experience without being overly complicated to prepare.

Ingredients

1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
2 1/2 cups thinly sliced leeks (white and pale green parts only; from about 2 large)
1/4 teaspoon celery seeds
Coarse kosher salt
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup half and half
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
8 ounces wide egg noodles
1/2 cup coarsely grated Gruyère cheese (about 2 1/2 ounces)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
2 5- to 6-ounce cans albacore tuna (preferably packed in olive oil), drained, broken into 1/2-inch chunks
2 cups coarsely crushed salted potato chips (about 2 ounces)

  • Mandoline Slicer
  • Kitchen Mixer (Hand or Stand)
  • 9-Inch Square Baking Dish
  • Chef’s Knife
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons Set
  • Colander
  • Oven Mitts
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula

History of the recipe

The “Tuna Noodle Casseroley with Leeks and Fresh Dill” is a modern take on traditional casserole dishes. While it doesn’t have an extensive history, its combination of ingredients speaks to global influences in cooking. Tuna noodle casseroles gained popularity as easy-to-make comfort food in the United States during the mid-20th century. The addition of leeks and dill brings a unique twist that pays homage to international flavor profiles, showcasing how culinary traditions evolve over time through creative experimentation.

Fun facts about this recipe

Did you know? Leeks are the vegetable cousin of onions and garlic and have been cultivated for thousands of years, with evidence dating back to ancient Egypt! Incorporating them into a casserole infuses your dish with nutrients like vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants. The choice of Gruyère cheese not only adds a delicious richness but also represents Switzerland’s influence on American cuisine. Moreover, using salted potato chips in the casserole introduces an unexpected crunch that contrasts nicely with other components, highlighting how innovative cooking techniques can transform familiar ingredients into culinary surprises.

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Tuna Noodle Casserole with Leeks and Fresh Dill

Tuna Noodle Casserole with Leeks and Fresh Dill

amanda

Equipment

  • - Mandoline Slicer

  • - Kitchen Mixer (Hand or Stand)

  • - 9-Inch Square Baking Dish

  • - Chef's Knife

  • - Measuring Cups & Spoons Set

  • - Colander

  • - Oven Mitts

  • - Wooden Spoon or Spatula

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter

  • 2 1/2 cups thinly sliced leeks (white and pale green parts only; from about 2 large)

  • 1/4 teaspoon celery seeds

  • Coarse kosher salt

  • 1/4 cup all purpose flour

  • 2 cups whole milk

  • 1/2 cup half and half

  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

  • 8 ounces wide egg noodles

  • 1/2 cup coarsely grated Gruyère cheese (about 2 1/2 ounces)

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

  • 2 5- to 6-ounce cans albacore tuna (preferably packed in olive oil), drained, broken into 1/2-inch chunks

  • 2 cups coarsely crushed salted potato chips (about 2 ounces)

Instructions

1

Instruction 1

Butter 8 x 8 x 2-inch glass baking dish. Melt unsalted butter in heavy large saucepan over medium heat. Add leeks and celery seeds to saucepan; sprinkle lightly with coarse kosher salt. Cover saucepan and cook until leeks are tender but not brown, stirring often, about 8 minutes. Add flour; stir 1 minute. Gradually add milk and half and half; simmer until mixture thickens slightly, stirring often, about 5 minutes. Stir in lemon juice. Season leek sauce to taste with coarse kosher salt and pepper. Remove sauce from heat.
2

Instruction 2

Meanwhile, cook egg noodles in large pot of boiling salted water until tender, stirring occasionally. Drain noodles, reserving 3/4 cup noodle cooking liquid. Transfer noodles to large bowl. Pour leek sauce over noodles. Add grated Gruyère cheese and dill and stir to blend; add reserved noodle cooking liquid by tablespoons until mixture is moist and creamy (about 8 tablespoons). Fold in tuna. Transfer to prepared baking dish. DO AHEAD: Can be made 1 day ahead. Cool slightly. Chill uncovered until cold, then cover with foil and keep refrigerated.
3

Instruction 3

Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake noodle casserole, covered with foil, until heated through, about 20 minutes if freshly made or 30 minutes if chilled. Remove foil. Sprinkle crushed potato chips over and continue to bake, uncovered, until top is golden brown and filling bubbles, about 10 minutes longer. Serve hot.
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