Few meals offer the same level of comfort and satisfaction as a Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake. Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner, a meal-prep favorite, or a budget-friendly dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Imagine warm, cheesy pasta combined with flaky tuna, sweet peas, and a rich, creamy sauce—all baked until golden and bubbly. This dish is the perfect blend of convenience and indulgence. Plus, it’s packed with protein and calcium, making it a wholesome choice for busy weeknights.

If you love easy one-dish meals, this Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake is about to become a new favorite in your home. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious recipe from scratch!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake

Easy to make – Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and a straightforward process.
Budget-friendly – Canned tuna, pasta, and pantry staples keep this meal affordable.
Rich and creamy – A homemade cheese sauce makes every bite indulgent.
Great for meal prep – Make ahead and reheat for an easy weeknight dinner.
Family-approved – A comforting dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.

Ingredients for Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake

Below is the ingredient breakdown for this cheesy tuna pasta casserole.

Ingredient	Quantity
Tinned tuna (drained)	2 cans
Cooked peas	1 cup
Grated cheddar cheese	2 cups
Penne pasta	2 cups
Butter	2 tbsp (30g)
Plain flour	2 tbsp
Full-fat milk	2 cups
Dijon mustard	1 tsp
Ground black pepper	¼ tsp
Fresh parsley	1 tbsp (chopped)

How to Make Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake

1. Cook the Pasta

Boil the penne pasta in salted water according to package instructions.
Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Cook until the sauce thickens.

3. Add Flavor to the Sauce

Stir in Dijon mustard, black pepper, and 1 ½ cups of grated cheddar cheese.
Mix until smooth and creamy.

4. Assemble the Bake

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, drained tuna, peas, and cheese sauce.
Pour into a greased baking dish.

5. Add the Topping

Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top.

6. Bake Until Golden

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

7. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

The Secret to the Best Tuna Pasta Bake

1. Use High-Quality Tuna

For the best flavor, opt for tuna in brine or olive oil instead of water-packed tuna.

2. Make the Sauce Extra Creamy

Using full-fat milk and fresh cheese ensures a rich and velvety texture.

3. Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Cook it al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.

4. Add a Crunchy Topping

For extra texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking.

Best Sides to Serve with Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake

This dish pairs well with:

Garlic bread – The perfect side for scooping up extra sauce.
Green salad – A light, refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
Roasted vegetables – Try broccoli, carrots, or asparagus.
Steamed greens – Spinach, kale, or green beans make great additions.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~450 kcal
Protein	30g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fat	20g
Fiber	4g
Sugar	5g
Sodium	450mg

Variations and Customizations

Make It Healthier

Swap whole wheat pasta for a fiber boost.
Use low-fat cheese and milk for a lighter version.

Add More Veggies

Stir in mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrients.
Replace peas with sweetcorn for a different twist.

Make It Gluten-Free

Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a celiac-friendly version.

Boost the Flavor

Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Mix in grated Parmesan for extra cheesiness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave in 1-minute intervals.
Freeze: Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Cold Milk in the Sauce

Cold milk can cause lumps in the sauce. Use room temperature or warm milk for best results.

2. Not Draining the Tuna Properly

Too much liquid can make the pasta bake watery. Drain the tuna well before mixing.

3. Overcooking the Pasta

Since it bakes in the oven, cook pasta just until al dente.

4. Skipping the Cheese on Top

The golden, bubbly topping adds flavor and texture—don’t skip it!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?

Yes! Cook and flake fresh tuna before mixing it into the pasta.

2. Can I make this without cheese?

You can use a cream-based sauce without cheese, but the texture and flavor will be different.

3. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming grainy?

Use low heat and stir continuously when making the sauce.

4. Can I add breadcrumbs on top?

Yes! Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top before baking.

5. What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar is classic, but you can also use mozzarella, Parmesan, or Gruyère.

6. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Final Thoughts: Try This Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake Tonight!

This Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food—warm, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s a quick, budget-friendly, and satisfying meal that you’ll want to make again and again.

Give this recipe a try and experience the perfect balance of creamy sauce, tender pasta, and savory tuna. Serve it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for an unbeatable family dinner.