Description
This Cheesy Salmon Casserole is a comforting and nutritious main course featuring tender flaked salmon and al dente pasta baked in a creamy cheese sauce with hints of dill. It’s an easy-to-make dish perfect for family dinners, combining rich flavors and wholesome ingredients in a golden, bubbly casserole.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon and Pasta
- 2 cups cooked salmon, flaked (skin and bones removed)
- 8 ounces pasta (rotini or egg noodles)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill or parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until just al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release flavor.
- Make the Roux and Sauce: Stir in 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 1 1/2 cups milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, dried dill or parsley, salt, and pepper until the cheese fully melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Mix the Casserole: Fold cooked pasta, flaked salmon, and optional frozen peas into the cheese sauce until evenly combined. Transfer this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese on top. If desired, mix breadcrumbs with the 1 tablespoon melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole for a crispy crust. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and make serving easier.
Notes
- Canned salmon can be used as a convenient substitute—just be sure to remove skin and bones before using.
- Enhance the casserole by adding sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
