Tuna Mornay with Orange and Leek

Elevate your comfort food game with this luscious Tuna Mornay with Orange and Leek—a modern twist on a classic dish that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or casual weeknight meals. This recipe balances creamy cheeses, flaky tuna, and vibrant leeks with the unexpected zest of fresh orange juice and zest, adding a citrusy pop to the rich mornay sauce. A crunchy golden breadcrumb topping provides the perfect textural contrast, while optional pasta makes it hearty and filling. Easy to prepare in just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of baking, this dish is as satisfying as it is simple. Serve it straight from the oven for a crowd-pleasing casserole that combines comfort and sophistication in every bite. Keywords: tuna mornay, tuna casserole, orange and leek recipe, easy casseroles, cheesy tuna bake.

Nutriscore Rating: 64/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 large leek, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2.5 cups milk
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 0.25 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon orange zest, finely grated
• 2 tablespoons orange juice, freshly squeezed
• 2 cans canned tuna in spring water, drained and flaked
• 0.75 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 0 to taste salt
• 0 to taste pepper
• 12 ounces pasta, such as penne or macaroni (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium-sized baking dish.

Step 2

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the thinly sliced leek and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened but not browned.

Step 3

Sprinkle the flour over the leeks and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

Step 4

Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens and is smooth, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sharp cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 6

Add the orange zest, orange juice, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 7

Gently fold in the drained tuna and thawed peas, making sure everything is evenly combined.

Step 8

If using pasta, cook according to package instructions, drain, and mix into the tuna mornay mixture. If not using pasta, move to the next step.

Step 9

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 10

In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mornay.

Step 11

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Step 12

Remove from the oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1490.6 grams (1490.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2288

Total Fat 110.70g	142%
Saturated Fat 58.40g	292%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.80g
Cholesterol 294mg	98%
Sodium 4748mg	206%
Total Carbohydrate 235.40g	86%
Dietary Fiber 18.90g	68%
Total Sugars 52.10g
Protein 95.90g	192%

Vitamin D 299IU	1496%
Calcium 1919mg	148%
Iron 10mg	57%
Potassium 1866mg	40%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 42.9%

Protein: 16.5%

Carbs: 40.6%