Creamy Cheesy Tuna Mornay Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic

Comfort food reaches new heights with this creamy cheesy tuna mornay that promises to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Rich, velvety sauces blend perfectly with tender chunks of flaky fish.

The mornay brings a classic touch to a simple seafood dish.

Cheese lovers will adore the golden, bubbling top that creates an irresistible crust.

Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that dance across your palate.

Simple ingredients transform into an elegant meal that feels both homey and sophisticated.

Best Ways to Dish Up Tuna Mornay

• Party Platter Perfection: Slice this cheesy tuna mornay into small squares and serve as a delightful appetizer during gatherings, perfect for potlucks and casual get-togethers.
• Fresh Side Companions: Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the rich, creamy texture and add nutritional value to the meal.
• Bread Basket Bonus: Serve alongside crusty garlic bread or toasted sourdough slices to soak up the delicious cheesy sauce and enhance the overall dining experience.
• Leftover Magic: Reheat portions the next day for a quick lunch, or transform into a cold pasta salad by mixing with extra mayo and fresh herbs for a refreshing twist.

Tuna Mornay Storage Solutions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days, ensuring food safety and maintaining flavor.
• Transfer cooled mornay to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label with date and contents for easy tracking.
• Preheat oven to 180°C. Cover dish with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until temperature reaches 74°C. Add splash of milk if mixture seems dry to restore creamy texture.

FAQs

• What's the origin of Tuna Mornay?

A classic comfort food dish originating from French cuisine, adapted by home cooks worldwide as an easy and delicious seafood pasta casserole.

• Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the pasta with penne, shells, or spirals – choose a shape that holds sauce well and provides good texture.

• Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The cheesy sauce and mild tuna flavor make this dish appealing to children, and it’s an excellent way to introduce seafood to picky eaters.

• How can I make this dish more nutritious?

Add frozen peas, spinach, or diced bell peppers to increase vegetable content and boost the nutritional value of the meal.

Reasons to Love Cheesy Tuna Mornay

• Whip Up Comfort Cooking: A creamy, cheesy dish that hugs your taste buds with every delightful bite, perfect for satisfying hunger and warming hearts.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like using different types of cheese or adding vegetables to make this recipe uniquely yours without complicated steps.
• Family-Friendly Feast: Kids and adults alike will love this simple, hearty meal that brings everyone together around the dinner table with its irresistible cheesy goodness.
• Quick Weeknight Winner: Minimal prep work and straightforward cooking techniques mean you can have a delicious meal ready in no time, making it ideal for busy households.

Cheesy Tuna Mornay Pantry Staples

• Pasta: The foundation of this comforting dish that provides a hearty texture and substance.

• Tuna: A rich and flavorful protein that adds depth and nutrition to the casserole.

• Butter: Creates a smooth base for the creamy sauce and adds richness.
• Milk: Helps develop a silky and luscious sauce consistency.
• Cheese: Delivers a melty, tangy flavor that brings the entire dish together.

• Onion, Garlic: Provide a savory and aromatic foundation that enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Flour: Helps thicken the sauce and create a smooth texture.
• Breadcrumbs: Adds a crispy golden topping that provides delightful crunch.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate the dish's taste.

Simple Tuna Mornay Directions

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 180°C (350°F) and get ready for some cheesy goodness.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Cook pasta according to the package directions.

Once done, drain and set aside, keeping it ready for the flavor party.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

• Chopped onion
• Minced garlic

Sauté until these ingredients turn soft and fragrant.

Step 4: Create Silky Sauce Base

Sprinkle flour into the pan and stir for one minute.

Slowly whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the mixture transforms into a creamy, thick sauce.

Step 5: Add Cheesy Goodness

Pull the pan off the heat.

Stir in a generous handful of cheese, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Combine Tuna and Pasta

• Flaked tuna
• Cooked pasta

Mix everything until well combined and coated in the luscious sauce.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.

Sprinkle the top with breadcrumbs and remaining cheese for a delightful golden crust.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top turns golden and starts bubbling with cheesy excitement.

Step 9: Serve and Devour

Pull out the dish and serve hot.

Get ready to enjoy a comforting, cheesy tuna mornay that’ll make taste buds dance!

Tricks for Creamy Tuna Mornay

• Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness when baking, ensuring a perfect bite in the final dish.
• Use premium canned tuna in spring water for a cleaner, fresher flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• Whisk milk slowly and steadily to create a smooth, lump-free sauce that coats pasta and tuna evenly.
• Toast breadcrumbs briefly before sprinkling to add extra crunch and golden color to the mornay's surface.
• Grate cheese at room temperature for more even melting and better sauce incorporation, creating a creamy texture.

Cheesy Tuna Mornay Switch-Ups

• Gluten-Free Tuna Mornay: Replace wheat flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend. Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
• Low-Carb Version: Substitute pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Reduce cheese quantity and use almond flour for topping.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut milk instead of regular milk. Replace cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives. Opt for plant-based butter.
• Protein-Packed Option: Add cooked chicken or salmon alongside tuna. Incorporate spinach or peas for extra nutrients. Use Greek yogurt to boost protein content.

Cheesy Tuna Mornay Recipe

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4.8 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy cheesy tuna mornay brings comfort and nostalgia to classic comfort cuisine. Rich cheese sauce, tender tuna, and golden breadcrumb topping create a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 can (425 grams/15 ounces) tuna in spring water, drained
• 2 cups cooked pasta (macaroni, penne)
• 1 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese
• 2 cups milk

Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons plain flour
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

Topping Ingredient:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

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Instructions

1. Heat oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare a baking dish with light greasing.
2. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. Sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic in melted butter over medium heat until translucent and fragrant.
4. Sprinkle flour into the butter mixture, stirring continuously to create a smooth roux without browning.
5. Gradually pour milk into the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps and create a creamy white sauce.
6. Allow sauce to simmer and thicken, stirring frequently to prevent scorching at the bottom of the pan.
7. Remove sauce from heat and fold in half of the cheese until completely melted and incorporated.
8. Season sauce with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.
9. Gently fold drained tuna and cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring even distribution.
10. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly to create a uniform layer.
11. Sprinkle remaining cheese and breadcrumbs over the top to create a golden, crispy crust.
12. Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the surface turns golden brown and sauce bubbles around the edges.
13. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the sauce settle and flavors meld.

Notes

• Use low-sodium tuna to control the salt content and make the dish healthier for those watching their sodium intake.
• Choose whole wheat pasta for added fiber and a more nutritious meal that keeps you fuller longer.
• Replace regular milk with almond or oat milk to make the recipe dairy-free and suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals.
• Add frozen peas or diced vegetables like spinach to boost the nutritional value and introduce more color and texture to the dish.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 420 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 65 mg