Introduction

Tuna Mornay Casserole Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that combines the creamy goodness of a tuna mornay with the comfort of a pasta bake. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to please the entire family. It’s rich, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying, making it an ideal choice for those who love hearty meals with simple ingredients.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Pasta – 300g
Tuna (canned) – 400g
Cream of mushroom soup – 2 cans (about 400g each)
Mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh) – 1 cup
Cheddar cheese, grated – 2 cups
Milk – 1 cup
Onion, diced – 1 medium
Garlic, minced – 2 cloves
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Salt and pepper – to taste
Breadcrumbs – 1 cup (optional topping)

Prep Time

Preparation time for Tuna Mornay Casserole Pasta Bake is approximately 15-20 minutes. This includes gathering all your ingredients and prepping the vegetables.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time for this dish is around 30-35 minutes. The total time from prep to serving is approximately 50-55 minutes. This recipe yields about 6 servings, making it a wonderful option for family dinners or leftovers for lunch. Enjoy this comforting casserole as it warms both the heart and the stomach!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil water in a large pot, add a pinch of salt, and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until softened. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

Step 3: Add Milk

Gradually add milk to the roux, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Ensure there are no lumps.

Step 4: Incorporate Cheese

Remove the sauce from heat and stir in grated cheese until fully melted and combined. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Step 5: Mix in Tuna and Vegetables

Add drained tuna and frozen peas to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine without breaking the tuna too much.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the tuna cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure the pasta is fully coated.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Press down to evenly spread it and ensure a good layer.

Step 8: Add Topping

Sprinkle breadcrumbs and additional cheese on top of the pasta mixture for a crunchy topping.

Step 9: Bake

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the casserole for about 20-30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Step 10: Serve

Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Scoop portions onto plates and enjoy.

Notes

Note 1: Pasta Type

Any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or macaroni works best for this recipe.

Note 2: Cheese Options

You can use a mix of cheeses for added flavor; cheddar, mozzarella, or even Gruyère are great options.

Note 3: Tuna Variations

Canned tuna in oil or water can be used; just drain it before mixing it into the sauce.

Note 4: Vegetable Additions

Feel free to add other frozen vegetables or cooked ones like corn, bell peppers, or spinach.

Note 5: Storage

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer preservation.

Note 6: Reheating

Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of milk if the pasta seems dry.

Cook techniques

Cooking Pasta

To achieve the perfect texture for your pasta, cook it in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente. This ensures it holds its shape during baking.

Making a White Sauce

Begin by melting butter, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk while stirring continuously to avoid lumps, cooking until the sauce thickens and is smooth.

Incorporating Tuna

Drain the canned tuna properly to prevent excess moisture in the casserole, then flake it with a fork for even distribution in the dish.

Adding Cheese

Grate cheese to ensure it melts evenly throughout the casserole. A mix of cheddar and mozzarella can enhance both flavor and texture.

Baking to Perfection

Ensure your casserole is baked until the top is golden and bubbly. This not only adds flavor but also creates a delightful crunchy texture.

FAQ

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Yes, fresh cooked tuna can be substituted, but ensure it’s cooked thoroughly before incorporating it into the casserole.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the white sauce to accommodate gluten intolerance.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I serve with tuna mornay casserole?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables pairs well for a balanced meal alongside the casserole.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

This Tuna Mornay Casserole Pasta Bake is a delightful and comforting dish that combines creamy flavors with a satisfying pasta texture. It’s a wonderful option for busy weeknights or for feeding a crowd, and it allows for flexibility with ingredients to accommodate personal tastes and dietary needs.

More recipes suggestions and combination

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Combine macaroni and cheese with steamed broccoli for a deliciously creamy and satisfying meal that adds a nutritious twist.

Cheesy Vegetable Bake

Layer your favorite vegetables with cheese and breadcrumbs for a hearty bake that makes for a great side dish or a vegetarian main course.

Tuna Pasta Salad

Make a refreshing tuna pasta salad by tossing together cooked pasta, tuna, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing for a light yet filling dish.

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Bake

Swap tuna for chicken and add mushrooms for a rich and savory casserole that’s just as easy and satisfying.

Salmon Mornay

For a variation, use salmon instead of tuna for the same wonderful creamy sauce with a different flavor profile.

Spinach and Ricotta Pasta Bake

Mix spinach and ricotta cheese into pasta for a delicious vegetarian option that brings a rich taste and creamy texture.

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Utilize leftover turkey by making a comforting casserole with pasta, vegetables, and a creamy sauce for a perfect post-holiday meal.