Why You’ll Love This Tuna Pasta Bake Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare – Ready in under an hour!
- Budget-friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
- Versatile – Easily customizable to suit your taste.
- Family-approved – A crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Tuna pasta bake
Why You’ll Love This Tuna Pasta Bake RecipeThis tuna pasta bake is:Quick and easy to prepare – Ready in under an hour!Budget-friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients.Versatile – Easily customizable to suit your taste.Family-approved – A crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Ingredients
- 300 g (10.5 oz) pasta (penne or fusilli work best)
- 2 cans tuna in water or oil, drained
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 400 g (14 oz) canned chopped tomatoes
- 200 ml (7 fl oz) heavy cream or crème fraîche
- 100 g (3.5 oz) cheddar cheese, grated
- 50 g (1.7 oz) mozzarella cheese, grated
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the PastaPreheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the SauceHeat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.Stir in the canned tomatoes, dried oregano, and basil. Simmer for 5 minutes.Add the heavy cream and drained tuna, mixing well. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Pasta and SauceIn a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and tuna sauce. Mix until evenly coated.Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Add the Cheese ToppingSprinkle the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta.Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve and EnjoyRemove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, you can! Simply cook and flake the fresh tuna before adding it to the sauce.2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bake, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.3. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt, milk, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.Nutrition Information
Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values per serving (based on 4 servings):- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
Special Notes and Tips
- Add veggies: Toss in spinach, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat.
- Cheese lovers: Use a mix of your favorite cheeses for a richer flavor.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Tuna pasta bake is a timeless classic that never fails to satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creations with us in the comments below!
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