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Creamy tuna pasta bake topped with melted cheese and served in a baking dish.

Tuna Casserole Pasta Bake

A creamy, cheesy, and budget-friendly tuna pasta bake that is simple to prepare, perfect for busy nights, and sure to please the whole family.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz pasta (elbow macaroni, penne, or shells) Cooked until just tender.
  • 2 cans canned tuna (packed in water or oil, drained) Make sure to drain well.
  • 10.5 oz cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup Can substitute with simple white sauce.
  • 1/2 cup milk For loosening the sauce.
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Divide into two portions: one for the mix and one for topping.
  • 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables Chopped spinach or other veggies can also be used.
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp butter For greasing the baking dish.
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers For the crunchy topping.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until just tender. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the cream soup and milk until smooth.
  3. Add onion powder, garlic powder, pepper, and salt to the mixture.
  4. Fold in the drained tuna, half of the cheese, and the mixed vegetables.
  5. Stir in the cooked pasta until everything is well coated.
Baking
  1. Pour the mixture into a buttered baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
  2. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 to 25 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
  3. In the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle the breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top for a crunchy finish.
  4. Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For variations, you can use different types of veggies or switch the protein to canned salmon. To customize the flavor, add a spoonful of sour cream or a dash of hot sauce.