Dive into the ultimate comfort food with this timeless tuna pasta bake. Imagine tender pasta, flaky tuna, and sweet pops of peas and corn, all enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, then baked until it’s golden brown and bubbly on top. It’s a hearty, satisfying, and budget-friendly meal that the whole family will love, bringing a wave of comforting nostalgia to your dinner table.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta or other short pasta like macaroni or shells
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained and flaked
- 1 cup frozen sweet corn
- 1 cup frozen sweet peas
- 4 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk, whole or 2% recommended
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Pinch of nutmeg
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven & Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions, but undercook it by 2 minutes so it remains al dente.
- Add Veggies: In the last minute of cooking, add the frozen peas and corn to the pot with the pasta. Drain everything well and return it to the pot.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until it forms a paste (this is a roux). Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Thicken and Season: Continue to cook the sauce, whisking frequently, for 5-7 minutes, until it has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from the heat and stir in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Everything: Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the pasta, peas, and corn in the pot. Add the flaked tuna and gently stir everything together until well combined.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese over the top.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese topping is golden brown and melted. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Recipe Notes:
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Undercooking the pasta slightly is crucial because it will continue to cook in the oven. This prevents it from becoming mushy and ensures a perfect texture.
- Cheese Choices: Sharp cheddar provides a great tangy flavor that pairs well with the tuna. You can also use a blend of cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a simple mild cheddar.
- For a Crispy Topping: If you love a crunchy topping, mix the remaining ½ cup of cheese with ¼ cup of panko or regular breadcrumbs before sprinkling it over the pasta bake.
- Add-In Ideas: Feel free to add other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or finely chopped onions. Sauté them before making the sauce and add them in with the tuna.
- Storage and Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.
There you have it—a warm, cheesy, and incredibly comforting pasta bake that is sure to be a hit. This classic recipe is a testament to simple ingredients coming together to create something truly delicious and satisfying. We hope this dish brings a little extra comfort to your table! Happy cooking!
Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 590; Protein: 32g; Fat: 26g (Saturated Fat: 15g); Carbohydrates: 56g; Fiber: 4g; Sugar: 10g; Sodium: 750mg.
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is estimated and can vary depending on specific ingredients, brands, and serving sizes used. This information is provided for guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or nutritional advice.
