Save 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.
My family always looks forward to this comforting tuna pasta bake whenever we need something filling, simple, and fuss-free after a busy day.
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
- Frozen peas: 1 cup (150 g)
- Chopped tomatoes: 1 can (400 g/14 oz)
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Plain flour: 2 tbsp
- Milk: 1 1/2 cups (375 ml, dairy or unsweetened plant-based)
- Grated cheese: 1 cup (100 g, cheddar or mozzarella, optional)
- Dried oregano: 1/2 tsp
- Dried basil: 1/2 tsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (50 g)
- Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup (25 g) grated 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.
- Prepare 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 & Seasonings:
- Stir in chopped tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer 3–5 minutes.
- Add Protein & Cheese:
- Add drained tuna, peas, and half the grated cheese. Stir to combine.
- Combine Pasta:
- Add cooked pasta and mix gently.
- Transfer & Top:
- 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.
- Cool & Serve:
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Save This pasta bake is a favorite at our table, especially for cozy family nights when we all gather to share a warm meal together.
Notes & Variations
For a vegetarian twist, swap the tuna for chickpeas or add more veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or sweetcorn for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad and crusty bread to complete the meal.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 480 calories, 13 g total fat, 60 g carbohydrates, and 29 g protein.
Save Enjoy this comforting, budget-friendly bake fresh from the oven for a wholesome dinner any night of the week.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute chickpea pasta in this dish?
Yes, chickpea pasta is a great plant-based alternative that adds extra protein while maintaining a similar texture and cooking time.
- → How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply omit the tuna and add a drained can of chickpeas or extra vegetables like spinach and bell peppers to keep it filling and nutritious.
- → What cheese works best for the topping?
Cheddar or mozzarella both melt well, providing a golden and gooey topping. Parmesan adds a nice sharpness when sprinkled on top.
- → Can this be made gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to adapt the bake for gluten intolerance while keeping the flavors intact.
- → Is it possible to prepare this in advance?
Yes, assemble the bake ahead, store it covered in the fridge, and bake just before serving for a convenient meal option.
- → What side dishes pair well with this bake?
A crisp green salad and crusty bread complement the rich and savory casserole perfectly, adding freshness and crunch.