Cheesy Tuna Mornay Recipe

There's nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of creamy, cheesy Tuna Mornay fresh out of the oven. This beloved classic combines tender pasta, flaky tuna, and a rich cheese sauce into a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

Growing up, this was a go-to recipe in my family, especially on busy weeknights. My mom would whip it up using pantry staples, and we’d gather around the table, savoring every bite. It's affordable, satisfying, and so easy to make, you'll find yourself returning to it time and again.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Tuna Mornay

Get ready to discover your new favorite weeknight dinner. Cheesy Tuna Mornay is a one-dish wonder that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a hungry family.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have dinner on the table in under an hour – and most of that time is hands-off as it bakes to golden perfection.

This dish is also wonderfully budget-friendly. Using canned tuna and basic pantry ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both delicious and economical, making it perfect for meal planning or stretching your grocery budget.

The creamy, cheesy sauce is the real star here. It’s rich, indulgent, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite add-ins like peas, corn, or even crispy breadcrumbs for extra texture.

Finally, Cheesy Tuna Mornay is kid-approved! The cheesy, gooey texture and mild flavor make it a hit with picky eaters, so you can please everyone in the family without making separate meals.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Cheesy Tuna Mornay lies in its simple ingredients, each one contributing to its deliciously creamy texture and satisfying taste.

Start with the pasta. Elbow macaroni, penne, or shells work beautifully, as their shapes hold the cheese sauce well. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta options.

For the protein, canned tuna is the classic choice. It’s affordable and convenient, but make sure to use a good-quality brand packed in water or olive oil for the best flavor. Drain it thoroughly before mixing it into the dish.

The creamy sauce begins with a base of butter, flour, and milk to create a smooth roux. Whisking them together forms the foundation for a velvety sauce. Adding grated cheese, like cheddar or Gruyère, takes the richness to the next level.

A handful of vegetables like frozen peas, corn, or diced carrots can be stirred in for added color and nutrition. These additions make the dish even heartier and more well-rounded.

Lastly, you’ll need breadcrumbs and a little extra cheese for the topping. This creates that irresistible golden crust as it bakes, adding texture and a beautiful presentation.

You’ll also need a large saucepan for the sauce, a pot for boiling pasta, and a baking dish to bring everything together.

How To Make This Cheesy Tuna Mornay

Making Cheesy Tuna Mornay is a breeze, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. Here’s how to create this comforting dish step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente. Drain it well and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in flour to form a smooth paste. Cook this roux for about a minute to remove the raw flour taste, then gradually add milk while whisking constantly. This ensures a lump-free, creamy sauce.

As the sauce begins to thicken, stir in your grated cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for a hint of warmth. Fold in the drained tuna and cooked pasta, stirring until everything is evenly coated.

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and a generous layer of shredded cheese on top for that perfect golden crust. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and lightly browned.

Let it cool slightly before serving, and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness with your favorite side salad or crusty bread. The entire process takes about 45 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.

Storage Options

Cheesy Tuna Mornay is as convenient to store as it is to prepare, making it a great option for meal prepping or leftovers.

To refrigerate, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to three days. It’s perfect for reheating as a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week.

If you’d like to freeze it, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers before adding the breadcrumb topping. Freeze for up to two months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed, adding the breadcrumbs and cheese topping fresh.

For reheating, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but baking helps maintain the creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

Cheesy Tuna Mornay is endlessly adaptable, so feel free to get creative with your ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and cheese, or swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative. You can also replace some of the pasta with steamed cauliflower for fewer carbs and added veggies.

If you’re not a fan of tuna, substitute it with cooked chicken, turkey, or even canned salmon. These options offer a similar protein boost with a slightly different flavor profile.

Vegetarian? Skip the tuna altogether and load up on veggies like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms. The cheese sauce is rich enough to stand alone as the main flavor.

Love extra crunch? Top the dish with crushed potato chips or panko breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter. This adds a fun twist to the classic topping.

Spice things up by adding a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. It’s a great way to introduce a bit of heat without overwhelming the dish.

Cheesy Tuna Mornay is a dish that invites experimentation, so don’t hesitate to make it your own. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your spin on it, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.

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