Tuna Pasta Bake

Dive into comfort food heaven with this cheesy, golden Tuna Pasta Bake, a perfect one-pan dinner that combines effortless preparation with satisfying flavors. Tender al dente pasta is folded into a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic, onions, and savory mixed herbs, then elevated with flaky chunks of tuna for a hearty twist. Topped with a luscious layer of melted cheddar and mozzarella, along with a crispy breadcrumb crust, this baked dish emerges from the oven bubbling with irresistible goodness. Ready in under an hour, this family-friendly recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve warm to savor every creamy, crunchy bite! Keywords: tuna pasta bake, easy dinner recipe, cheesy pasta bake, family-friendly meals, comfort food.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 350 grams pasta (penne or fusilli)
• 2 cans canned tuna (in water or oil, drained)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 500 ml tomato passata
• 1 teaspoon dried mixed herbs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0 black pepper (to taste)
• 150 grams cheddar cheese (grated)
• 100 grams mozzarella cheese (grated)
• 50 grams breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, optional)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F.

Step 2

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, ensuring it is al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring continuously to prevent burning.

Step 5

Pour in the tomato passata, add the dried mixed herbs, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 6

Stir the drained tuna into the tomato sauce, breaking it up gently with a spoon. Cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 7

Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce and mix until well coated.

Step 8

Transfer the pasta mixture to a large ovenproof baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 9

Sprinkle the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top of the pasta in an even layer.

Step 10

Scatter the breadcrumbs on top of the cheese for a crispy crust.

Step 11

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

Step 12

Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Step 13

Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1586.5 grams (1586.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2195

Total Fat 79.50g	102%
Saturated Fat 46.70g	234%
Polyunsaturated Fat NaNg
Cholesterol 314mg	105%
Sodium 5632mg	245%
Total Carbohydrate 199.70g	73%
Dietary Fiber 17.00g	61%
Total Sugars 35.40g
Protein 168.50g	337%

Vitamin D 280IU	1402%
Calcium 1987mg	153%
Iron 12mg	67%
Potassium 2642mg	56%

*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: 32.7%

Protein: 30.8%

Carbs: 36.5%