Tuna Pasta Bake is a comforting, oven-baked classic that combines tender pasta, flaky tuna, and a rich tomato sauce topped with melted cheese. This Tuna Pasta Bake is perfect for a quick, satisfying family dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Tuna Pasta Bake is easy, affordable, and packed with flavor. It’s a one-dish meal that uses simple pantry ingredients while delivering a creamy, cheesy, and hearty result. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 300 g dried pasta
- 300 g broccoli
- 500 g passata
- 2 tsp garlic granules
- 3 tbsp tomato puree
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and black pepper
- 200 g tinned tuna, drained
- 300 g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 150 g mature cheddar cheese, grated
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Cook pasta according to package instructions.
- Add broccoli to the boiling pasta water during the last 4 minutes of cooking.
- In a bowl, mix passata, garlic granules, tomato puree, oregano, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Drain pasta and broccoli, then return to the pot.
- Add the sauce, drained tuna, and cherry tomatoes. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden.
This Tuna Pasta Bake is ready to serve hot and fresh from the oven.
Tips & Tricks
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option
- Add chili flakes for a spicy kick
- Swap broccoli with spinach or zucchini
- Use mozzarella for a stretchier cheese topping
- Do not overcook pasta before baking
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Halal-friendly, High-Protein
Notes
- Great for leftovers and meal prep
- Can be made ahead and baked later
- Add sweet corn for extra texture
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 18g
FAQ
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, but cook and flake it before adding.
Can I freeze Tuna Pasta Bake?
Yes, freeze before or after baking for up to 3 months.
What pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni works best.
Can I make it creamy?
Add a splash of cream or béchamel sauce.
How do I prevent it from drying out?
Ensure enough sauce and avoid overbaking.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store up to 4 days in airtight container
- Freezer: Freeze up to 3 months
- Reheating: Reheat in oven or microwave with a splash of water or sauce
Similar Recipes
Tuna Pasta Bake
Ingredients
- 300 g dried pasta
- 300 g broccoli
- 500 g passata
- 2 tsp garlic granules
- 3 tbsp tomato puree
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and black pepper
- 200 g tinned tuna drained
- 300 g cherry tomatoes halved
- 150 g mature cheddar cheese grated
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Cook pasta according to package instructions.
- Add broccoli to the boiling pasta water during the last 4 minutes of cooking.
- In a bowl, mix passata, garlic granules, tomato puree, oregano, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Drain pasta and broccoli, then return to the pot.
- Add the sauce, drained tuna, and cherry tomatoes. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden.
- This Tuna Pasta Bake is ready to serve hot and fresh from the oven.
Notes
- Great for leftovers and meal prep
Conclusion
Tuna Pasta Bake is a classic comfort dish that’s easy to prepare and full of rich, satisfying flavors. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or whenever you need a warm, hearty meal with minimal effort.