Cheesy Tuna Mornay Recipe

There's nothing quite like a comforting, creamy Cheesy Tuna Mornay bubbling away in the oven. This classic dish is packed with tender pasta, flaky tuna, and a velvety, cheese-laden sauce that’s sure to satisfy the whole family.

this Recipe

I first made this when I needed a quick pantry meal that felt like a warm hug. With simple ingredients that are budget-friendly yet bursting with flavor, Cheesy Tuna Mornay quickly became a weekly favorite. Let's dive into this creamy delight!

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Tuna Mornay

Get ready to fall in love with this warm and satisfying dish. Cheesy Tuna Mornay delivers comfort in every bite and is perfect for busy families or anyone craving a bit of nostalgia.

First of all, it’s incredibly simple to make. With a few pantry staples, you can whip up a mouthwatering dinner in just 30 minutes. This makes it perfect for hectic weeknights when you don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Plus, it’s a budget-friendly meal. The main ingredients, such as canned tuna and pasta, are affordable and accessible, making it a great choice for those keeping an eye on their grocery bills.

Another huge perk? It's the ultimate kid-friendly dish. Creamy, cheesy, and familiar flavors mean even the pickiest eaters will be coming back for seconds. And for parents, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrition with ease.

Lastly, this dish is endlessly versatile. Add vegetables for more color and nutrients, or change up the cheese for a different flavor profile. It’s a perfect blank canvas for your kitchen creativity!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Cheesy Tuna Mornay lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a dish that's creamy, savory, and absolutely irresistible.

Pasta: Use any short pasta shape you love. Penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work beautifully, as they capture the sauce in every nook and cranny. Whole wheat or gluten-free options can also be used if preferred.

Canned Tuna: Choose high-quality tuna packed in water for the best flavor and texture. Flake it well with a fork before adding it to the sauce, ensuring it distributes evenly throughout the dish.

Cheese: Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, adding a tangy, robust flavor to the sauce. You can also experiment with mozzarella for a gooey finish or add some grated Parmesan for extra depth. Using freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a creamier sauce.

Milk and Broth: A combination of milk and chicken broth creates a rich yet light base for the Mornay sauce. You can use low-fat milk if desired, though the sauce won’t be quite as thick. Vegetable broth works well too, especially for a more vegetarian-friendly dish.

Breadcrumbs: A sprinkle of golden breadcrumbs on top adds a lovely crunch to contrast with the creamy interior. Use panko for extra crispiness or make your own using day-old bread.

You’ll also need a large pot for boiling pasta, a sturdy skillet or saucepan for the sauce, and a baking dish to bring it all together.

How To Make This Cheesy Tuna Mornay

Making this delicious Cheesy Tuna Mornay is easier than you think! Let’s walk through the steps together for a fail-proof dish that comes together in no time.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water for later.

While the pasta cooks, prepare the luscious cheese sauce. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute, releasing its fragrant aroma.

Next, sprinkle in all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes. This forms a roux, which thickens the sauce. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, making sure to remove any lumps. Continue to whisk as the sauce thickens, which should take about 5 minutes.

Once thickened, reduce the heat and add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for added warmth. If the sauce is too thick, a splash of the reserved pasta water will loosen it perfectly.

Now, fold in the cooked pasta and flaked tuna, mixing until well combined. Transfer everything to a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Top with a generous layer of breadcrumbs and an extra sprinkle of cheese for a bubbly, golden finish.

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling around the edges. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This dish tastes best when warm and fresh, with all the flavors melding together beautifully.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (or want to make it ahead), Cheesy Tuna Mornay stores well and is easy to reheat. Here’s how to do it.

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish has completely cooled before refrigerating to prevent excess moisture buildup.

Freeze: You can freeze Cheesy Tuna Mornay for up to 2 months. Transfer to a freezer-safe container, cover tightly with foil, and label with the date. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat: Warm up individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Add a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Cheesy Tuna Mornay is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own.

Vegetables: Add diced carrots, peas, or broccoli for a pop of color and extra nutrients. Simply blanch or sauté them before mixing into the sauce to ensure they cook through.

Protein Options: While tuna is the star of this dish, you can substitute it with canned salmon or shredded rotisserie chicken. Both add a different yet delicious twist to the classic recipe.

Spice It Up: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the top just before serving.

Gluten-Free: Swap the pasta for a gluten-free variety and use gluten-free flour for the roux. Gluten-free breadcrumbs work well for the crunchy topping too.

Cheese Variations: Play around with the cheese to suit your preferences. A mix of cheddar and gruyere gives a sophisticated flavor, while pepper jack adds a zesty twist.

Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to your taste. After all, the best dishes are the ones that bring a smile to your face and a touch of your own flair!

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