Description
Hearty cheesy tuna mornay delivers comfort straight from Australian kitchens with creamy sauce and crisp breadcrumb topping. Home cooks can enjoy this classic seafood casserole that brings warmth and satisfying flavors to dinner tables.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 can (425 grams/15 ounces) tuna, drained and flaked
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 2 cups cooked pasta (macaroni or penne)
- 1 cup frozen peas and corn mix
- 1 onion, finely diced
Dairy and Sauce Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons plain flour
Seasoning and Garnish:
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Topping (Optional):
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Heat oven to 180C (350F) for optimal baking preparation.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then gently sauté diced onions until translucent and softened.
- Introduce flour to the butter-onion mixture, stirring continuously to create a smooth roux and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly incorporate milk while whisking, eliminating potential lumps and cooking until the sauce reaches a creamy, thick consistency.
- Blend grated cheese into the white sauce, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to enhance flavor profile.
- Fold flaked tuna, cooked pasta, and vegetable medley into the cheese sauce, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
- Carefully transfer the combined mixture into a greased baking dish, creating an even layer.
- Generously top the casserole with breadcrumbs and extra cheese for a crispy, golden crust.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the surface turns golden brown and the edges become slightly bubbly.
- Remove from oven, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve piping hot for maximum enjoyment.
Notes
- Choose sustainably sourced or canned tuna for a more environmentally friendly dish.
- Swap regular pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free options to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version of this comforting casserole.
- Replace breadcrumbs with crushed nuts or gluten-free alternatives for added nutrition and crunch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 370 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg