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A comforting Tuna Pasta Bake in a blue casserole dish, topped with golden melted cheese, sweet corn, and fresh parsley.
Layla

The Ultimate Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake

A comforting and classic casserole featuring tender pasta and flaky tuna in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, all baked to golden perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, British
Calories: 625

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Bake
  • 12 oz Penne pasta or other short pasta like fusilli or macaroni
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 medium Yellow onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 4 tbsp Unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup All-purpose flour
  • 2.5 cups Whole milk warmed
  • 2 cups Sharp cheddar cheese grated, divided
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 cans (5 oz each) Tuna in water drained very well and flaked
  • 1 cup Frozen sweetcorn
  • 1 cup Frozen peas
  • 1/2 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper freshly ground
For the Crunchy Topping
  • 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted butter melted

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Large Saucepan or Skillet
  • Whisk
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch (or similar 2-quart) baking dish.
  2. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente (usually 1-2 minutes less than the recommended time, as it will continue to cook in the oven). Add the frozen peas to the pot during the last minute of cooking. Drain well and set aside.
  3. While the pasta cooks, make the cheese sauce. In a large saucepan or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Melt the 4 tbsp of butter in the saucepan with the onions. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
  5. Gradually pour in the warm milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, until it has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  6. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in 1.5 cups of the grated cheddar cheese, the Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and peas, the well-drained flaked tuna, and the frozen sweetcorn. Pour the cheese sauce over the top and gently stir everything together until well combined.
  8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
  9. In a small bowl, prepare the topping. Mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and the 2 tbsp of melted butter until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
  10. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the pasta, followed by the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese.
  11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
  12. Let the tuna pasta bake rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook the pasta initially, as it will become mushy after baking. Cooking it al dente is key.
- Ensure the tuna is drained very well to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.
- Warming the milk before adding it to the roux helps create a smoother, lump-free sauce.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli.
- Use a different cheese blend, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor profile.
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.