Creamy, Classic Cheesy Tuna Mornay Recipe Everyone Will Love

My trusty cheesy tuna mornay recipe has been a kitchen companion through countless family dinners.

Memories of creamy comfort swirl around this classic dish.

Seafood enthusiasts will adore the rich, velvety sauce that blankets tender fish pieces.

Weeknight meals demand something quick and satisfying, and this recipe delivers perfectly.

You can whip up this delightful casserole in under 30 minutes.

Unexpected guests or sudden hunger pangs meet their match with this delectable creation.

Dive into a world of maritime flavors that promise to delight every palate.

Reheat Tuna Mornay And Keep It Creamy

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Cover with damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
• Transfer to oven-safe dish. Cover with foil to retain moisture. Warm at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated thoroughly. Add extra cheese on top for extra crispiness.
• Avoid multiple reheats, as this can degrade taste and texture. Consume reheated portion within one day for best flavor and food safety.

What Complements Cheesy Tuna Mornay

• Elevate Wine Pairing: Choose a crisp, unoaked Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy, cheesy sauce and cut through its richness.
• Refreshing Side Salad: Prepare a zesty green salad with lemon vinaigrette, mixed herbs, and cucumber to balance the dish's heavy texture and add bright, fresh notes.
• Crunchy Contrast: Top the Tuna Mornay with toasted herbed breadcrumbs or serve alongside crusty garlic bread to provide a satisfying textural counterpoint and absorb the delicious sauce.
• Perfect Beer Match: Select a light, slightly hoppy pale ale that will cleanse the palate and enhance the dish's savory seafood and cheesy flavors without overwhelming the delicate tuna.

Cheesy Tuna Mornay with Creamy Bake Ideas

• Gluten-Free Tuna Casserole: Replace wheat flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend to create a roux, ensuring those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy the meal.
• Dairy-Free Oceanic Comfort: Substitute dairy milk with unsweetened almond milk, use nutritional yeast instead of cheese, and add dairy-free margarine for a creamy, lactose-free version.
• Protein-Packed Mediterranean Remix: Swap tuna with canned salmon or chickpeas, add diced roasted red peppers, and sprinkle feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired nutritional boost.
• Low-Carb Seafood Bake: Replace pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles, maintain the creamy sauce, and top with crushed almond flour for a keto-friendly alternative.

FAQs

• What type of tuna works best for this recipe?

Canned light or white tuna packed in water is ideal. Drain it completely before using to prevent excess liquid in the dish.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend for the roux, and use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.

• How do I prevent the sauce from becoming lumpy?

Whisk constantly when adding milk to the roux, and use warm milk to help create a smooth, creamy sauce. Add milk gradually and keep stirring.

• Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Prepare the entire recipe up to the baking stage, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through and golden on top.

Tuna Mornay That’s Creamy And Cozy

• Whip Up Quickly: Perfect for busy weeknights, this tuna mornay comes together in just 30 minutes, making meal preparation stress-free and efficient.
• Comfort Food Champion: Creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and flaky tuna create a nostalgic, warm dish that appeals to both kids and adults, delivering ultimate comfort in every bite.
• Family-Friendly Favorite: Packed with protein from tuna and nutrition from peas, this recipe offers a balanced meal that satisfies picky eaters while providing essential nutrients.
• Budget-Friendly Delight: Using simple, affordable ingredients like canned tuna, pasta, and basic pantry staples, this recipe delivers delicious results without breaking the bank.

Core Ingredients In Cheesy Tuna Mornay

• Pasta (Macaroni, Penne, or Shells): Provides hearty foundation for the dish, choose a shape that holds sauce well.
• Tuna: Main protein source, select high-quality canned tuna in water for best flavor.

• Butter, All-Purpose Flour: Create a classic roux for smooth, creamy sauce base.
• Milk: Adds rich, creamy texture to the sauce, warm milk helps blend ingredients smoothly.
• Cheddar Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Provide deep, tangy cheese flavor and creamy consistency, sharp cheddar recommended.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds subtle tang and depth to cheese sauce.

• Salt, Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing overall dish flavor.
• Frozen Peas: Optional vegetable addition for color and nutrition.
• Breadcrumbs: Optional crunchy topping for added texture and golden finish.

Tuna Mornay Cheesy Prep Plan

Step 1: Warm Up The Cooking Space

Crank the oven to a toasty 375°F.

Grab a casserole dish and give it a quick butter or oil rub to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Pasta Base

Boil the pasta in salted water following package guidelines.

Once perfectly cooked, drain and set aside.

Step 3: Create Magical Roux

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Sprinkle flour and whisk together, letting it cook and bubble for a quick 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Develop Creamy Sauce

Slowly pour warm milk into the roux, whisking like a pro to prevent lumps.

Keep stirring until the sauce transforms into a smooth, thick consistency.

Step 5: Add Cheese Deliciousness

• Cheddar cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Dijon mustard

Stir until everything melts into a heavenly sauce.

Season with salt and pepper for extra flavor.

Step 6: Combine Fishy Goodness

• Cooked pasta
• Flaked tuna
• Frozen peas

Ensure every piece gets a delicious sauce coating.

Step 7: Prepare For Baking

Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.

Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy surprise.

Step 8: Bake To Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven.

Bake for 15-20 minutes until the top turns golden and starts bubbling with excitement.

Tuna Mornay Tips That Keep It Creamy and Classic

• Reserve some pasta cooking water to help sauce cling better and create a silkier texture.
• Grate cheese at room temperature and add gradually while stirring to ensure smooth, even melting.
• Swap tuna with cooked chicken, salmon, or plant-based alternatives for dietary flexibility.
• Adjust milk quantity to create thicker or thinner sauce based on personal preference.
• Add a splash of white wine or a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for more complex, sophisticated taste profile.

Cheesy Tuna Mornay Recipe

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4.5 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Comforting cheesy tuna mornay brings classic Australian home cooking to your table with creamy sauce and golden breadcrumb topping. Simple ingredients blend into a satisfying meal that connects family and friends around warm, nostalgic flavors you’ll savor with genuine delight.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 can (12 ounces / 340 grams) tuna, drained and flaked
• 2 cups cooked pasta (macaroni, penne, or shells)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 cups milk (warm)

Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven and prepare a casserole dish with a light coating of grease to prevent sticking.
2. Cook pasta until al dente, ensuring it remains slightly firm. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
3. Create a roux by melting butter in a saucepan and incorporating flour, stirring continuously for a couple of minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.
4. Gradually introduce warm milk while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps, allowing the mixture to thicken and develop a smooth consistency.
5. Incorporate both cheddar and parmesan cheeses into the sauce, melting them completely. Add Dijon mustard for a subtle tangy flavor and season with salt and pepper to enhance the overall taste.
6. Gently combine the prepared sauce with cooked pasta, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Fold in flaked tuna and peas, distributing ingredients uniformly throughout the mixture.
7. Transfer the creamy mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Optional: Sprinkle a layer of breadcrumbs on top for added texture and golden crispiness.
8. Bake in the preheated oven until the surface turns golden brown and the edges become bubbly, indicating the dish is heated through and ready to serve.

Notes

• Prevent sauce from lumping by whisking milk slowly and consistently into the roux, ensuring smooth texture.
• Enhance flavor complexity by using smoked tuna or adding a dash of paprika for subtle warmth.
• Boost nutrition by incorporating extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach for added color and vitamins.
• Create gluten-free version by substituting regular flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend, maintaining creamy consistency.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Australian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 366
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 570 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 55 mg