Tasty Tuna Noodle Casserole

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 4.8 (or larger) quart casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.

Cook egg noodles according to package directions. Drain well and place in a large mixing bowl.

While noodles are cooking, in a medium skillet, melt 1 Tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Saute onions, celery, red bell pepper and garlic until tender. Season lightly with salt and pepper while sauteing. Remove from heat and add vegetables to noodles in the mixing bowl.

In same skillet, melt 4 Tablespoons of butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes over medium/low heat, whisking frequently. Slowly add milk and chicken stock, alternately, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add thyme, paprika, dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and additional salt and pepper to taste. Once thickened, remove from heat, stir in grated cheese and stir until melted.

Add drained tuna, peas and sauce to the mixing bowl and gently combine all ingredients until evenly combined then put it into the prepared casserole dish.

Bake in preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until bubbly.