Looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that the whole family will love? Dive into the comforting world of Cheesy Tuna Pasta Bake! This Italian-inspired dish combines tender pasta, hearty tuna, and a creamy sauce, all topped with melty cheddar and a crispy breadcrumb finish. With just 50 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll have a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy evenings or cozy gatherings. Trust us, one bite of this cheesy goodness and you’ll be hooked!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 cans tuna, drained
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander, reserving a small amount of pasta water.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, frozen peas, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Add the cooked pasta to the tuna mixture, stirring gently to ensure even distribution. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the mixture seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle breadcrumbs over the entire surface.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes serving easier.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions if desired. Pairs well with a simple green salad.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While any pasta will work, short shapes like penne or fusilli hold onto the sauce beautifully, enhancing every bite.
- Customize Your Add-ins: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be prepared a day in advance! Just assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, increase the cooking time by about 10 minutes.
- Check for Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more milk or using a combination of cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soup.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the dish to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking helps the sauce set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
- Garnish for Flavor: Elevate your dish by garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
- Pair It Right: Serve with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that will impress everyone at the table!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 45mg
