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