Print

Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 120 reviews

This creamy tuna pasta bake is a comforting and easy-to-make casserole that combines tender pasta, flaky tuna, savory mushroom soup, sweet peas, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (your favorite shape)
  • 2 cans tuna in water, drained
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings

  • Breadcrumbs for topping
  • Chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
  3. Mix Tuna Bake Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, frozen peas, shredded cheddar cheese (reserve a small amount for topping), milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a creamy mixture.
  4. Combine Pasta and Tuna Mixture: Add the cooked pasta to the tuna mixture and gently fold until everything is evenly combined.
  5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the tuna-pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
  6. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese over the top. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy crust. Add chopped parsley if using for garnish.
  7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  8. Serve: Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your creamy tuna pasta bake warm.

Notes

  • Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or macaroni.
  • For a lighter version, substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a low-fat alternative or use Greek yogurt.
  • Add other vegetables like corn or diced carrots for extra nutrition.
  • If you don’t have frozen peas, fresh or canned peas can also be used.
  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • To boost flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon juice or a tablespoon of chopped capers to the mixture before baking.