The Walking Dead Inspired: Carol's Baked Pasta

The Walking Dead's Carol's Baked Tuna Pasta

I cannot believe we're finally here! It's the end of season 5 of AMC's The Walking Dead.  I'm so excited to see what happens and who survives.  As a bit of celebratory evening, I've decided to whip up Carol's oh-so sorry baked pasta that she made for Deanna Monroe in the last episode.  This was a bit of a tricky one since dairy is a difficult ingredient to get since we are in the zombie apocalypse. but it's still a cool idea for those holding a party for tonight's series finale.  

Also, how badass is Funko Carol? This is the limited edition blood splattered Carol from Hot Topic.  I'll admit I'm a bit disappointed that I couldn't find a Carol in her floral cardigan but this will have to do.

Carol's "I'm Truly Sorry About Your Loss" Baked Tuna Pasta

Yield: 3 people     Prep Time: 25 minutes

• 2 tbsp of vegetable shortening or butter
• 1/4 cup all purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (powdered milk will work, we are in an apocalypse after all!)
• 1/4 cup cheese, I used grated parmesan.  
• 8 oz of dried pasta
• 6oz canned tuna
• salt and pepper to taste

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Season with salt.
2. Preheat the oven to 400F.
3. Once the water comes up to a boil, add your pasta and cook until the pasta softens but still has a bite to it.  It will continue to cook in the oven.
4. Drain and set aside.
5. In another pot, melt your butter or shortening.  Add your flour and whisk to combine.
6. Add your melt in three additions.  Whisk in between each addition to prevent lumps.
7. Keep whisking on medium heat until the mixture thickens and coats the back of your spoon.  This will take around 10 minutes.
8. Turn off the heat and add your cheese. Whisk to combine. 
9. Toss your pasta in the cheese mixture along with the tuna. Pour the pasta into an ovenproof pan and bake.
10. Bake in the oven until cooked through.  This will only take about 5-8 minutes in an 400F oven.  You can add more cheese on top or even breadcrumbs.
11. Now leave it on Deanna Monroe's doorstep with a sincere letter or apology for the loss of his son and you're done!

I'd imagine spam would be a great substitute and an ingredient Alexandria would have on hand.  I've decided to stick to tuna since that is what Carol used in the show.  Cheese might be a bit more difficult to find so cheap parmesan from the shop would be quite appropriate for this dish.