Cheesy Tuna Mornay Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole straight from the oven. This Cheesy Tuna Mornay is the ultimate family-friendly dish that combines tender pasta, creamy sauce, and flaky tuna, all crowned with a golden, bubbly layer of melted cheese.

I first fell in love with Tuna Mornay during a childhood dinner at my grandmother’s house. She had a knack for turning pantry staples into meals that felt like a hug in a bowl. This version is my modern take on her classic, blending simplicity with a flavor-packed twist.

Let’s dive into the details of what makes this dish so irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Tuna Mornay

Get ready to embrace your new go-to comfort food! This Cheesy Tuna Mornay checks all the boxes for a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing dinner.

First off, it’s incredibly simple to make. With just a handful of everyday ingredients and one baking dish, you’ll have dinner on the table in under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights!

It’s also a great budget-friendly meal. Using canned tuna and pantry staples, you can whip up this satisfying dish without breaking the bank.

Worried about picky eaters? Don’t be! The creamy cheese sauce and pasta make this dish a guaranteed winner, even for those hesitant about seafood.

Finally, this recipe is wonderfully versatile. Whether you’re swapping out the protein, changing the vegetables, or experimenting with different cheeses, this Tuna Mornay adapts beautifully to your preferences.

Let’s start by gathering our ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cheesy Tuna Mornay lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and some tips to make the most of each one:

• Canned Tuna: The star of the show! Choose a good-quality tuna packed in water or oil. For the best texture, flake it gently before adding to the sauce.
• Pasta: Opt for short pasta like macaroni, penne, or shells. These shapes hold the sauce well, ensuring each bite is coated in creamy goodness.
• Cheese: A combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan works wonders here. The cheddar adds richness, while the Parmesan brings a nutty, savory depth.
• Milk and Cream: For a luscious, velvety sauce, I recommend a mix of whole milk and heavy cream. If you’re watching calories, you can substitute with low-fat options, but the sauce will be less indulgent.
• Vegetables: Sweet peas or corn add a pop of sweetness and color. You can also include sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced carrots for extra veggies.
• Breadcrumbs: A sprinkle of seasoned breadcrumbs on top creates the perfect crispy contrast to the creamy filling.

Special Equipment

A large baking dish (9x13 works well) and a sturdy saucepan for preparing the sauce are all you need for this recipe.

How to Make This Cheesy Tuna Mornay

Creating this delicious casserole is simpler than you might think! Follow these steps for a foolproof dinner:

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce
   In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
3. Add the Cheese and Tuna
   Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese, reserving a handful of each for topping. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Once the cheese has melted, gently fold in the tuna and cooked vegetables.
4. Assemble the Casserole
   Combine the sauce with the cooked pasta and transfer to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
5. Bake to Perfection
   Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to keep your Cheesy Tuna Mornay fresh and delicious:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes beautifully! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Add a splash of milk to prevent the sauce from drying out.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this dish is its flexibility. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Protein Swap: Try canned salmon, shredded chicken, or cooked shrimp in place of tuna.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the tuna and load up on roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for a celiac-friendly meal.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with Gruyère, mozzarella, or a mix of your favorite cheeses for a unique flavor profile.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

This Cheesy Tuna Mornay is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting classic that brings people together around the dinner table. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or freezing for a busy day, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

What’s your favorite twist on Tuna Mornay? Let me know in the comments below!

Print