Baked Tuna Pasta: The Easiest Comfort Food Recipe

Baked tuna pasta. Just saying those three words conjures up a wave of nostalgia for me. This baked tuna pasta recipe is more than just a comforting casserole; it’s a hug in a dish, a reminder of simpler times. Growing up, it was my grandmother’s go to meal when we needed something hearty and satisfying. Now, I’m excited to share my updated version of baked tuna pasta with you all, a classic tweaked just enough for a modern palate.

Why You Will Love This baked tuna pasta Recipe

This isn’t your average tuna casserole! What makes this baked tuna pasta recipe special is its creamy, cheesy sauce and the hint of lemon zest that brightens everything up. It’s pure comfort food, ready in under an hour, and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak some extra veggies into your family’s meal. Talk about a winning combination!

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Ingredients Needed for This baked tuna pasta Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting casserole:

• Pasta:

* 1 pound elbow macaroni

• Sauce:

* ½ cup butter * ½ cup all purpose flour * 4 cups milk * 1 teaspoon salt * ½ teaspoon black pepper * ¼ teaspoon nutmeg * 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided * 1 cup frozen peas

• Tuna Mixture:

* 2 (5 ounce) cans tuna in water, drained * ½ cup mayonnaise * ¼ cup chopped celery * ¼ cup chopped onion * 1 tablespoon lemon juice * Zest of ½ lemon * ½ cup bread crumbs * 2 tablespoons melted butter

How to Make This baked tuna pasta Recipe

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create a delicious baked tuna pasta that everyone will love. And for another delicious tuna recipe that is sure to please, try these amazing Baked Tuna Wraps 2.

1. 1. Preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. 2. Cook the Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain well.
3. 3. Make the Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
4. 4. Season and Thicken: Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce has thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. 5. Add Cheese and Peas: Remove from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Stir in the frozen peas.
6. 6. Prepare Tuna Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, celery, onion, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix well.
7. 7. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta and tuna mixture to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
8. 8. Transfer to Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
9. 9. Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the pasta mixture.
10. 10. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the bread crumb topping.
11. 11. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
12. 12. Cool and Serve: Let stand for 5 10 minutes before serving. For another great recipe, check out these Baked Tuna Wraps 4.

How to Serve This baked tuna pasta Recipe

This baked tuna pasta is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to add a side, consider a simple green salad or steamed broccoli. A crusty piece of bread is also perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce. For a more upscale presentation, transfer individual portions to oven safe ramekins before baking.

How to Store This baked tuna pasta Recipe

To store leftovers, let the baked tuna pasta cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make This baked tuna pasta Recipe

• For a creamier sauce, use whole milk instead of lower fat options.
• If you don’t have celery, finely chopped bell pepper works well as a substitute.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Make sure to drain the tuna well to prevent a watery casserole.
• For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. These Baked Tuna Wraps 5 are also a great source of tuna goodness.

Helpful Notes for This baked tuna pasta Recipe

• The type of tuna you use will affect the overall flavor. I prefer tuna in water for a cleaner taste, but tuna in oil will add richness.
• You can use any type of short pasta you like, such as penne or rotini.
• If you don’t have bread crumbs, crushed crackers (like Ritz) also work well for the topping.

Variation of This baked tuna pasta Recipe

• Spicy Tuna Pasta: Add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Vegetable Packed: Add chopped carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms to the tuna mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
• Cheesy Variations: Use a blend of cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack in addition to the cheddar for a more complex flavor profile.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. With its creamy sauce, comforting flavors, and simple preparation, this baked tuna pasta is the perfect weeknight meal. Give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments below!

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