Creamy Tuna Mornay Casserole Pasta Bake Recipe for Cozy Nights

Comfort arrives with this delightful tuna mornay casserole pasta bake that promises warmth and satisfaction in every creamy bite.

Layers of tender pasta intertwine with rich, cheesy sauce and flaky fish.

Weeknight dinners need something special, and this recipe checks all the boxes for a memorable meal.

Creamy textures blend seamlessly with crisp breadcrumb toppings, creating a delectable contrast.

Home cooks can easily assemble this dish with pantry staples and minimal preparation time.

Simple ingredients come together to craft a nostalgic and hearty dinner solution.

You’ll fall in love with how quickly this casserole transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary feast that everyone will adore.

Why Tuna Mornay Casserole Pasta Bake Comforts Like No Other

• Craft a Comforting Meal: This tuna mornay casserole brings warmth and nostalgia to your dinner table with its creamy sauce and hearty ingredients.
• Master Simple Cooking Techniques: Learn to create a perfect roux, blend flavors, and bake a delicious one-pan dish that requires minimal cooking skills.
• Family-Friendly Dinner Solution: Packed with protein from tuna, vegetables, and cheese, this recipe satisfies picky eaters and provides a nutritious meal everyone will love.
• Quick Weeknight Dinner Savior: Combine pantry staples and basic ingredients to create a filling meal that comes together quickly with minimal prep work and cleanup.

What You’ll Need for Tuna Mornay Pasta Bake

• Tuna: A protein-rich seafood that provides a savory and hearty flavor to the casserole.
• Pasta: The base of the dish that adds substance and texture to the bake.
• Cheese: A creamy ingredient that melts into a delicious sauce and creates a golden crispy topping.

• Butter: A rich ingredient that helps create a smooth and flavorful base for the sauce.
• Milk: A creamy liquid that helps create a smooth and velvety sauce.
• Flour: A thickening agent that helps create a rich and creamy sauce.

• Onion: An aromatic vegetable that adds depth and flavor to the sauce.
• Peas, Corn: Sweet vegetables that provide additional texture and nutrition to the casserole.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

• Breadcrumbs, Remaining Cheese: A crispy and golden topping that adds texture and extra cheesy flavor to the bake.
• Olive Oil: A light oil used to grease the baking dish and prevent sticking.

How to Make Creamy Tuna Mornay Pasta Bake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank up your oven to 180°C / 350°F. Grab a baking dish and give it a light olive oil massage to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil water with a sprinkle of salt. Toss in the pasta and cook until it’s perfectly tender.

Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Toss in chopped onions and let them dance until they turn translucent and fragrant.

Step 4: Create a Creamy Base

Sprinkle flour into the pan and stir to create a smooth paste.

Slowly pour in milk, whisking continuously to banish any lumps and create a silky sauce.

Step 5: Add Cheesy Goodness

Fold in half of the grated cheese until it melts into a dreamy sauce.

Season with salt and pepper to bring out the flavors.

Step 6: Combine Delicious Elements

• Drained tuna
• Sweet peas
• Corn kernels
• Cooked pasta

Ensure everything is well coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs on top for a crispy, golden crown.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and gets delightfully crispy.

Step 9: Serve and Savor

Pull out the bubbling, cheesy creation and serve immediately. Get ready for a comforting, delicious meal that’ll make everyone smile!

Tips for Tuna Mornay Casserole Pasta That Wows

• Swap canned tuna with cooked chicken or salmon for a versatile protein alternative.
• Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Enhance flavor by adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the sauce for extra brightness.
• Include extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to boost nutritional value and add more color.
• Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve for convenient meal planning.

Creative Ways to Reimagine Tuna Mornay Pasta

• Seafood Medley: Replace tuna with a mix of salmon, shrimp, and white fish for a luxurious seafood version.
• Veggie Power: Swap tuna with roasted cauliflower and add spinach for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
• Spicy Southwest: Incorporate diced jalapeños, black beans, and use pepper jack cheese for a zesty Mexican-inspired casserole.
• Mediterranean Magic: Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a Greek-style flavor profile with fresh herbs like oregano.

Great Sides for Tuna Mornay Pasta Bake

• Crisp White Wine Companion: Pair the creamy tuna casserole with a chilled sauvignon blanc, whose bright acidity cuts through the richness and complements the seafood's delicate flavor.
• Fresh Leafy Green Salad: Serve a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette alongside the dish, providing a zesty contrast to the creamy pasta and adding a refreshing crunch.
• Buttery Chardonnay Option: Choose a lightly oaked chardonnay that matches the casserole's creamy texture and enhances the mild tuna and cheese notes.
• Crusty Garlic Bread Sidekick: Add toasted garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce and provide a crunchy textural element that elevates the entire meal.

How to Store and Reheat Tuna Mornay Pasta

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Freeze: Transfer cooled casserole to a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat Oven: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Preheat oven to 180°C, cover with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warm.

Tuna Mornay Pasta Bake FAQs

• Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Tuna Mornay is packed with mild flavors kids love, including cheese and pasta. The creamy sauce and soft texture make it appealing for children, and you can easily hide vegetables like peas and corn.

• Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the pasta. Shells, spirals, or elbow macaroni work perfectly. Choose a shape that holds the creamy sauce well and is easy to eat.

• What if I don't have fresh tuna?

No problem! Canned tuna is actually recommended for this recipe. Just drain it well before adding to the sauce. Opt for tuna in water for a lighter dish.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, low-fat milk, and add extra vegetables like spinach or diced bell peppers.

Tuna Mornay Casserole Pasta Bake Recipe

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4.6 from 28 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Creamy “tuna mornay casserole pasta bake” delivers comfort straight from Australian kitchens, blending rich seafood and cheesy pasta in one hearty dish. Warm family dinners come alive with this classic recipe that promises delicious satisfaction and nostalgic flavors you’ll crave.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 185 grams / 6 ounces canned tuna, drained
• 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or tasty)

Pasta and Vegetables:

• 300 grams / 10 ounces pasta (penne or spirals)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup corn kernels (canned or frozen)
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped

Sauce and Seasoning:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons plain flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing)

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 180°C / 350°F and lightly coat a baking dish with olive oil for easy release.
2. Boil pasta in salted water following package directions until perfectly tender, then drain and reserve.
3. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, sautéing chopped onions until they become translucent and fragrant.
4. Sprinkle flour into the pan, stirring to create a smooth roux that will thicken the sauce.
5. Gradually pour milk into the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps and create a silky, creamy base.
6. Incorporate half the grated cheese into the sauce, stirring until completely melted and integrated.
7. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile.
8. Gently fold drained tuna, sweet peas, and corn kernels into the creamy sauce.
9. Add the cooked pasta to the mixture, ensuring every piece is evenly coated with the sauce.
10. Transfer the entire mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
11. Sprinkle the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs over the top, creating a golden, crispy crust.
12. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the surface turns a beautiful golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
13. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving hot.

Notes

• Choose low-sodium tuna to control salt content and create a healthier version of this comforting dish.
• Swap regular pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives for dietary accommodations.
• For extra crunch, toast breadcrumbs in a pan with a little butter before sprinkling on top to enhance golden color and texture.
• Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill to brighten the flavor profile and introduce a fresh element to the creamy casserole.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Australian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 45mg