Tomato Tuna Pasta Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tomato Tuna Pasta Bake is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that brings together the richness of tuna, the acidity of tomatoes, and the creaminess of cheese. This hearty bake is perfect for a family meal or a potluck. The combination of flavors and textures, from the tender pasta to the crispy top, will leave everyone satisfied and asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• Pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
• Canned tuna, drained
• Canned tomatoes
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Tomato paste
• Olive oil
• Mixed herbs (such as basil, oregano, and thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cheddar cheese, grated
• Mozzarella cheese, grated
• Milk
• All-purpose flour
• Butter

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with a little butter or oil.
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
4. Stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, and mixed herbs. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the drained tuna to the sauce and stir to combine. Remove from heat.
6. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux.
7. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, then remove from heat.
8. Combine the pasta with the tomato-tuna sauce, and then pour the creamy sauce over it. Mix everything together and transfer to the prepared baking dish.
9. Top with grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Add some frozen peas or sweetcorn for extra sweetness and texture.
• Use a combination of different cheeses like Parmesan or Gruyère for more flavor.
• Swap tuna for canned salmon or chicken for a different protein.
• Add some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added veggies.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Tomato Tuna Pasta Bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
For reheating, simply microwave or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used, but they might need to be cooked down longer to create a sauce-like consistency.

What other pasta can I use?
Any type of pasta will work—penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are great options for this dish.

Can I use low-fat cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cheese, but the dish might not be as creamy.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked dish for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Conclusion

Tomato Tuna Pasta Bake is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. It’s packed with comforting flavors and is sure to be a family favorite. Enjoy the hearty blend of pasta, tuna, and cheesy goodness!

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