Salmon Casserole
Creamy, comforting, and packed with protein, this Salmon Casserole is a must-try for a hearty weeknight dinner or an impressive family gathering. Featuring tender flaked salmon, perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, and a velvety cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and cream cheese, this dish offers layers of indulgent flavor. The addition of sautéed onion, garlic, and a hint of dill elevates the dish with a subtle aromatics blend, while optional peas add a pop of color and extra nutrition. Topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs for a satisfying golden crunch, this casserole is baked to bubbly perfection in just 35 minutes. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this easy-to-make recipe is as satisfying as it is delicious.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 pieces (about 12 oz total) salmon fillets (boneless and skinless)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dill (chopped, fresh or dried)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish and set aside.
Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Season the salmon fillets with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and dill. Heat a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and sear the salmon fillets for 2-3 minutes on each side until cooked through. Use a fork to flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw flour smell disappears. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to create a smooth sauce.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese, allowing them to melt completely. Season the sauce with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Add the cooked pasta, flaked salmon, and peas (if using) to the cheese sauce. Gently stir to combine.
Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and remaining olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
4110 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 183.5 g | 235% | |
| Saturated Fat | 92.8 g | 464% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 484 mg | 161% | |
| Sodium | 4634 mg | 201% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 463.5 g | 169% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 26.7 g | 95% | |
| Total Sugars | 57.1 g | ||
| Protein | 158.9 g | 318% | |
| Vitamin D | 13.9 mcg | 69% | |
| Calcium | 2121 mg | 163% | |
| Iron | 14.0 mg | 78% | |
| Potassium | 2391 mg | 51% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
