Introduction
Hey there! Today, I want to share with you my go-to recipe for Easy Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake. This dish holds a special place in my heart because it’s not only delicious but also brings back memories of cozy family dinners. There’s something incredibly satisfying about the combination of tender pasta, creamy sauce, and flavorful tuna. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This
I make this when I need a quick and comforting meal that the whole family can enjoy. The creamy sauce adds a luxurious touch to the dish, making it feel indulgent without much effort. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some protein from the tuna. My family goes crazy for this because it’s both comforting and flavorful, and it never fails to put smiles on their faces!
Ingredients
For this Easy Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake, you’ll need:
- 250g pasta of your choice
- 2 cans of tuna, drained
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of frozen peas
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional substitutions: If you’re in a hurry, you can use canned peas instead of frozen ones. Feel free to switch up the cheese with your favorite variety. I sometimes use mozzarella or a combination of different cheeses for extra flavor.
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become fragrant and translucent.
3. Next, add the drained tuna and frozen peas to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for a couple of minutes until the peas are heated through.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Once it’s done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This is where I usually sneak a taste because I just can’t resist!
Notes
Through trial and error, I’ve discovered that this dish tastes best when you use chunky tuna rather than flaked. It adds a nice texture to the pasta bake. Also, don’t worry if the sauce looks a bit thin when you first take it out of the oven – it thickens as it cools.
Variations
I love experimenting with different flavors in this recipe. One variation I’ve tried is adding a handful of sliced black olives for a briny twist. It adds a burst of flavor that complements the creamy sauce perfectly. However, I once tried substituting the cheddar cheese with blue cheese, and it didn’t work out so well. The strong flavor overpowered the other ingredients. Lesson learned!
Equipment
If you don’t have a baking dish, don’t worry! You can use a casserole dish or even a deep oven-safe skillet as a substitute. The key is to have something that can hold the pasta mixture and fit in your oven.
Storage
This Easy Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Though honestly, in my house, it never lasts more than a day!
Serving Suggestions
I love serving this pasta bake with a simple green salad on the side. The fresh, crisp greens complement the creamy dish perfectly. Another personal preference of mine is to sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and added freshness.
Pro Tips
One lesson I’ve learned from my mistakes is not to rush the sauce thickening process. It’s tempting to turn up the heat, but trust me, it’s worth the wait. Slowly simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
FAQ
Q: Can I use canned tuna packed in oil instead of water?
A: Absolutely! Canned tuna packed in oil will add an extra richness to the dish. Just make sure to drain the oil before adding it to the skillet.
Q: Can I use frozen tuna instead of canned?
A: While fresh tuna is always a great option, frozen tuna works well too. Just thaw it before using and make sure to drain any excess water.
I hope you enjoy making this Easy Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake as much as I do. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a creamy, flavorful pasta bake that will leave you craving more!
Easy Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake
Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender pasta with creamy sauce, tuna, peas, and cheese. It’s a simple yet indulgent meal that is perfect for cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
- 250g pasta of your choice
- 2 cans of tuna, drained
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of frozen peas
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and boil the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add tuna and peas, cook until peas are heated through.
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Pour in heavy cream, simmer until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
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Combine cooked pasta with the sauce, transfer to a baking dish, and top with cheddar cheese.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool before serving.