Pin A hearty, budget-friendly casserole featuring protein-rich tuna (or chickpea pasta for extra plant-based protein), perfect for family dinners and made mostly from pantry staples.
I first made this tuna pasta bake on a busy weeknight when I needed something filling and simple. It quickly became a go-to dinner that everyone in my family requests again and again.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) dried pasta (regular or chickpea pasta)
- Tuna: 2 x 160 g (5.6 oz) cans tuna in water or olive oil, drained
- Peas: 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas
- Chopped Tomatoes: 1 can (400 g/14 oz) chopped tomatoes
- Onion: 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp olive oil
- Flour: 2 tbsp plain flour
- Milk: 1 1/2 cups (375 ml) milk (dairy or unsweetened plant-based)
- Cheese: 1 cup (100 g) grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella, optional)
- Oregano: 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Basil: 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Bread Crumbs: 1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs
- Parmesan: 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan or more cheddar (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Make Sauce:
- Stir in flour, cook 1 minute, then gradually whisk in milk to form a smooth sauce. Simmer, stirring, until thickened (about 3–4 minutes).
- Add Tomatoes and Herbs:
- Stir in chopped tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer 3–5 minutes.
- Mix in Protein and Cheese:
- Add drained tuna, peas, and half the grated cheese. Stir to combine.
- Combine with Pasta:
- Add cooked pasta and mix gently.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Pour mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining cheese, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan (if using).
- Bake:
- Bake 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Rest:
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Pin My kids love to help sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumbs on top. Sharing this dish at family dinners always brings smiles to the table.
Serving Suggestions
Serve tuna pasta bake hot with a crisp green salad and a slice of crusty bread for a perfectly balanced meal.
Allergen Info
The recipe contains fish, dairy, and gluten. Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs or plant-based cheese and milk to adapt for dietary needs. Always check ingredient labels for allergy concerns.
Nutritional Information
This pasta bake provides approximately 480 calories, 13 g total fat, 60 g carbohydrates, and 29 g protein per serving.
Pin This comforting casserole is perfect for busy nights and can be easily customized. Enjoy the leftovers for lunch the next day!
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I substitute chickpea pasta for regular pasta?
Yes, chickpea pasta works well and adds extra plant-based protein while keeping the dish hearty and filling.
- → How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Omit the tuna and add a can of drained chickpeas or extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for more nutrition.
- → What cheese types can be used for topping?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan all melt nicely to create a golden, bubbling crust on top of the bake.
- → Is it possible to prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to accommodate gluten sensitivities without compromising texture.
- → What side dishes pair well with this pasta bake?
Serve alongside a crisp green salad and crusty bread for a balanced and satisfying meal.