Description
This Supercharged Tuna Mornay takes a classic creamy tuna pasta bake to the next level with bright lemon zing, fresh spinach, sweet peas, and a golden, crispy panko topping. It’s a comforting, protein-packed dish perfect for family dinners or meal prep that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Trust me, the rich cheese sauce with tender tuna and veggies will quickly become your go-to comfort food!
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 500 g (1 lb 2 oz) conchiglioni or preferred pasta
- 100 g (3½ oz) unsalted butter
- 2 tsp freshly grated garlic
- ⅓ cup (50 g) all-purpose flour
- 3½ cups (875 ml) whole milk
- 2 cups (90 g) baby spinach
- 1 cup (155 g) frozen peas
- 425 g (15 oz) canned tuna in olive oil, drained
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tbsp juice)
- 1 cup (125 g) grated cheddar or similar cheese
- ½ cup (50 g) finely grated parmesan
- 1½ tsp sea salt flakes
- ¼ tsp cracked black pepper
Panko Topping
- ½ cup (60 g) grated cheddar
- ¼ cup (25 g) finely grated parmesan
- 1 cup (60 g) panko breadcrumbs
- Olive oil spray or 1–2 tbsp olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened.
- Add spinach and peas, cooking until wilted and tender.
- Stir in tuna, lemon zest and juice, cheddar, parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce, then pour into a large baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix panko, cheddar, and parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the pasta.
- Spray or drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Let rest briefly before serving.
Notes
- Use high-quality canned tuna packed in olive oil for the best flavor and texture.
- Feel free to swap conchiglioni for penne, rigatoni, or shells.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for extra warmth and depth.
- For a crispier topping, broil for 1-2 minutes after baking—watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Leftovers reheat well and make great lunches.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg