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Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.
Cook the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and celery, cooking until they become tender and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to your casserole.
Prepare the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk, stirring until smooth. Then, add the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to incorporate all the ingredients.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, frozen peas, and drained tuna to the mixing bowl. Stir until everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
Assemble the Casserole: Lightly grease a baking dish with butter. Pour the tuna mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. If desired, sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese and crushed potato chips for added crunch and flavor.
Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown. If you prefer a crispier topping, you can place the dish under the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Let it Rest: Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to scoop out.
Tips and Conclusion
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