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Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake Recipe

4.6 from 129 reviews

This Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring tender pasta combined with tuna, creamy mushroom soup, and a blend of seasonings. Enhanced with frozen peas and shredded cheddar cheese, it’s baked to golden perfection and makes for a hearty family meal or quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Protein

  • 12 oz pasta (your favorite shape)
  • 2 cans tuna in water, drained

Sauce and Vegetables

  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese and Topping

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Optional: breadcrumbs for topping
  • Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the pasta casserole.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
  3. Prepare the Sauce Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well incorporated.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Add the drained tuna, frozen peas, and cooked pasta into the sauce mixture. Gently fold everything together to evenly coat the pasta and distribute the tuna and peas.
  5. Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. If using, add a layer of breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
  6. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top if desired, slice, and serve warm.

Notes

  • For extra creaminess, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
  • Try adding chopped onions or bell peppers for additional flavor and texture.
  • Gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs can be used to make this dish gluten-free.
  • To reduce calories, use a reduced-fat cheese and low-fat soup version.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: tuna pasta bake, creamy tuna casserole, easy baked pasta, cheesy tuna pasta, weeknight dinner, comfort food