Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting dish, this Easy Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake is your ticket to flavor town. With its rich, creamy texture and savory taste, it’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want a satisfying meal. It’s easy to make and even easier to love. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake
- Quick and simple to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Uses pantry staples, making it budget-friendly.
- Comforting creamy texture with a cheesy topping that everyone adores.
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- Great for leftovers, tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100g) grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated parmesan cheese
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (100g) frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Directions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Mix It All Together
Add the drained tuna, cooked pasta, frozen peas, heavy cream, and half of the cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar and parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes
- For a healthier option, try using whole wheat pasta. Learn more about whole grains.
- If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute half of the cream with milk.
- Check out this guide on baking pasta to perfect your technique.
Variations
- Vegetable Delight: Add broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Mediterranean Twist: Include sun-dried tomatoes and olives for a tangy flavor.
Required Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Baking dish
- Colander
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Suggested Pairings
Pair this creamy tuna pasta bake with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- Cook pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile. Explore various cheese options.
- Let the bake rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven to set the creamy sauce.
FAQ
- Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned? Yes, simply cook the fresh tuna before mixing it with the other ingredients.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.
- Can I freeze the pasta bake? Yes, freeze it before baking, and when ready to eat, bake from frozen adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.