Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake

Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food—a hearty, delicious casserole that combines tender pasta, rich and creamy sauce, savory tuna, and melted cheese for a dish that’s satisfying and easy to make. This family favorite is packed with flavor and makes an excellent weeknight dinner or a meal-prep option that tastes even better the next day.

What makes this dish so special is its balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and nutritious ingredients like protein-packed tuna and vegetables. It’s a one-pan wonder that can be served on its own or alongside a simple salad or garlic bread. With its golden, bubbly cheese topping and creamy interior, this pasta bake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.

The best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can mix in your favorite vegetables, switch up the type of pasta, or even use different cheeses to suit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a potluck, or a cozy night in, Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food Classic: This dish is rich, creamy, and cheesy—perfect for satisfying cravings.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this comforting pasta bake, making it an excellent choice for family meals.
• Versatile: Customize it with your favorite vegetables, cheese, or even alternative proteins like chicken.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples like canned tuna, pasta, and cheese, this dish is affordable and accessible.
• Meal Prep Friendly: It reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers or meal prep.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for potlucks, gatherings, or casual dinners with friends.
• Nutritionally Balanced: Packed with protein from the tuna and dairy, plus carbs for energy, this is a meal that satisfies on all levels.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 1 portion (approximately 1 ½ cups)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 460 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 3 g

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake:

• 12 oz (340 g) penne, fusilli, or any short pasta
• 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna packed in water, drained
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for added veggies)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ cups whole milk (or 2% milk)
• ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions (usually 1-2 minutes less than fully cooked since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven).
2. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. The mixture should turn light golden and smell slightly nutty.
2. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add the chicken or vegetable broth (if using) and continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Once the sauce is smooth and thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Pasta Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, drained tuna, frozen peas (if using), and the prepared creamy sauce. Gently stir until everything is evenly coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch (or similar-sized) baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
4. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese over the top for a cheesy, golden crust.

Step 4: Bake

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
2. If you prefer a crispier topping, switch to broil mode for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley (optional) and serve warm.

Ingredient Background

• Pasta: Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni is ideal because it holds the sauce well, ensuring every bite is creamy and flavorful.
• Tuna: Canned tuna is an affordable and convenient source of protein. Tuna in water is lighter, but tuna in oil adds extra richness.
• Cheese: Cheddar provides a creamy and sharp flavor, while Parmesan adds a nutty, savory note. You can use other cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère if preferred.
• Frozen Peas: These add color, texture, and a touch of sweetness to the dish. Other vegetables like corn, spinach, or diced bell peppers can also be used.
• Roux: A classic combination of butter and flour forms the base of the creamy sauce, ensuring it thickens perfectly.
• Milk: Whole milk creates a rich, velvety sauce, but 2% milk or a mix of milk and cream can also be used.

Technique Tips

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooking the pasta ensures it doesn’t become mushy after baking.
• Whisk the Sauce: Whisk continuously while making the sauce to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth texture.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: The sauce should be well-seasoned to bring out the flavors of the tuna and cheese. Add salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
• Layer Cheese for Extra Flavor: Mixing cheese into the sauce and adding a cheesy topping ensures maximum creaminess and flavor.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Individual Servings: Divide the pasta mixture into individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. Bake as directed.
• Bread Crumb Topping: Sprinkle panko bread crumbs mixed with a little melted butter and Parmesan over the top before baking for a crunchy, golden crust.
• Tuna Pasta Muffins: Scoop the mixture into a greased muffin tin and bake to create portable, kid-friendly portions.

Additional Tips for Success

• Add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick of heat.
• For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of cheese.
• If the sauce thickens too much while assembling the bake, add a splash of milk to loosen it.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetable-Packed: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced zucchini for more veggies.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.
• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy twist.
• Creamy Tomato Twist: Add ½ cup of marinara sauce to the creamy mixture for a creamy tomato base.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes beautifully. Wrap the unbaked or fully baked casserole tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For individual portions, use the microwave and stir occasionally for even heating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use whole-wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
• Replace some of the butter with olive oil for a heart-healthy fat.
• Use light cheese and low-fat milk to reduce the calorie content without sacrificing creaminess.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Serve Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing side.
• Pair it with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for a complete meal.
• Add garlic bread or dinner rolls on the side to soak up any leftover sauce.

Special Equipment

• Large saucepan for making the creamy sauce.
• 9×13-inch baking dish (glass, ceramic, or metal) for even baking.
• Whisk for a lump-free sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or even shells works well for this recipe.

Q2: Can I use canned tuna in oil?
Absolutely! Tuna in oil adds extra richness to the dish. Be sure to drain it well before using.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.

Q4: Can I use canned cream of mushroom soup instead of making the sauce?
Yes, for a shortcut, substitute the homemade sauce with a can of cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup. Add a splash of milk to thin it out.

Q5: What cheeses work best?
Cheddar and Parmesan are classics, but you can use mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.

Q6: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

Q7: Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze it either before or after baking. Make sure it’s well-covered to prevent freezer burn.

Q8: What other proteins can I use?
If you’re not a fan of tuna, cooked shredded chicken or canned salmon are excellent alternatives.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake is the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and flavor. Its rich, cheesy sauce, tender pasta, and savory tuna come together in a dish that’s both satisfying and simple to make. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or bringing a dish to a potluck, this recipe is a surefire hit. Customize it to suit your preferences, and enjoy the ultimate comfort food any day of the week!

Print