What is baked tuna pasta?

Baked tuna pasta is a casserole-style dish consisting of pasta, tuna, a creamy sauce (often cheese-based), and a breadcrumb topping. It is baked in the oven until golden brown and bubbly, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

How do you keep baked tuna pasta from being dry?

To prevent baked tuna pasta from becoming dry, ensure the sauce is sufficiently moist before baking. You can also add a layer of cheese on top before baking to help retain moisture and create a creamy texture. Avoid overbaking as this can also cause dryness.

Can you prepare baked tuna pasta in advance?

Yes, you can assemble baked tuna pasta ahead of time. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it is heated through.

What kind of pasta is best for baked tuna pasta?

Short pasta shapes like penne, macaroni, or rotini are ideal for baked tuna pasta. These shapes hold the sauce well and create a cohesive and satisfying casserole.

7 Best Baked Tuna Pasta Secrets: Easy, Delicious & Tested

Description

A comforting and easy baked tuna pasta recipe with a creamy cheese sauce and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound elbow macaroni
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
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

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain well.
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.
Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce has thickened, about 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Stir in the frozen peas.
In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, celery, onion, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix well.
Add the cooked pasta and tuna mixture to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the pasta mixture.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the bread crumb topping.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Let stand for 5 10 minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: tuna casserole, baked pasta, comfort food