The Creamiest Cheesy Tuna Mornay Recipe You’ll Ever Taste

Crafting a delightful cheesy tuna mornay recipe sparks memories of comforting family dinners.

My grandmother first shared this creamy classic during cozy winter evenings.

Comfort food reaches new heights with this maritime-inspired dish that blends rich flavors seamlessly.

Seafood enthusiasts will adore the silky sauce coating tender chunks of tuna.

Cheese lovers appreciate the golden-brown crust that adds irresistible texture to every bite.

Pantry staples come together quickly, making this meal perfect for busy weeknights.

You can whip up this elegant yet simple recipe in less than thirty minutes.

Prepare to be amazed by how such basic ingredients create such extraordinary deliciousness.

Cheesy Tuna Mornay – Twists And Upgrades

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace wheat flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend. Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for celiac-friendly preparation.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap dairy milk with almond or coconut milk. Use nutritional yeast instead of cheese and dairy-free margarine in place of butter.
• Protein Boost: Replace tuna with shredded chicken or salmon. Add quinoa or white beans for extra protein and nutritional value.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute tuna with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Use plant-based cheese and continue with original recipe method.

Ways To Serve Cheesy Tuna Mornay Best

• Comfort Food Companion: Pair this creamy tuna mornay with a crisp green salad to balance the rich, cheesy flavors.
• Hearty Side Kick: Roasted seasonal vegetables like broccoli or asparagus add a nutritious and colorful touch to the main dish.
• Bread Lover's Delight: Serve with crusty garlic bread or toasted sourdough to soak up the delicious cheese sauce and add extra texture.
• Fresh Finish: Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a bright, herbal garnish that lifts the entire meal.

Cheesy Tuna Mornay – Simple Storage Guide

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or lid to prevent moisture loss.
• Transfer cooled Cheesy Tuna Mornay to freezer-safe containers. Seal carefully, removing excess air. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label container with date and contents.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Place portion in oven-safe dish. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Add extra cheese on top if desired.

FAQs

• What makes this Tuna Mornay different from other pasta dishes?

This recipe combines classic comfort food elements with a creamy cheese sauce, tender tuna, and sweet peas, creating a balanced and satisfying one-dish meal that’s both nostalgic and delicious.

• Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?

Absolutely! It takes around 30-40 minutes total to prepare and bake, making it perfect for busy families looking for a quick, nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

• Can I use different types of fish or protein in this recipe?

Yes, you can easily substitute tuna with canned salmon, flaked white fish, or even cooked chicken for variety while maintaining the dish’s creamy, comforting texture.

Cheesy Tuna Mornay: Comfort On A Plate

• Master a Quick Family Dinner: Busy parents will love how simple this recipe is to prepare, combining protein-packed tuna with kid-friendly pasta for a nutritious meal everyone enjoys.
• Transform Pantry Staples into Gourmet Dish: Ordinary ingredients like canned tuna, pasta, and cheese come together to create a restaurant-worthy casserole that feels special without complicated techniques.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like vegetables or cheese types to match your family's preferences, making this recipe wonderfully adaptable for different tastes and dietary needs.

Must-Have Ingredients For Tuna Mornay

• Tuna: Fresh or canned protein that provides the main flavor and substance of the dish.
• Pasta: The foundational carbohydrate that serves as the base for the cheesy casserole.
• Milk: Creamy liquid that helps create the smooth cheese sauce.

• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and melty cheese that adds rich flavor to the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Provides a crispy, golden topping with a nutty taste.

• Butter: Creates a rich base for the sauce and helps develop deep flavors.
• Flour: Thickens the sauce and provides a smooth texture.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Onion: Adds aromatic depth and subtle sweetness to the base of the sauce.
• Peas: Provides a pop of color and light vegetable nutrition to the casserole.
• Breadcrumbs: Creates a crispy, golden topping that adds textural contrast.

Whipping Up Cheesy Tuna Mornay Quickly

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 180C (350F) to get ready for delicious cooking.

Step 2: Sauté Fragrant Onions

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat and cook onions until they become soft and translucent.

Step 3: Create A Smooth Roux

Sprinkle flour into the pan and stir for one minute, creating a smooth base for your creamy sauce.

Step 4: Whisk Silky Sauce

Gradually pour milk into the pan, whisking continuously until the mixture transforms into a velvety, thick sauce.

Step 5: Add Cheesy Goodness

Remove the pan from heat and fold in cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt completely.

Season with salt and pepper for extra flavor.

Step 6: Combine Delicious Elements

• Cooked pasta
• Flaky tuna
• Sweet green peas
• Creamy cheese sauce

Ensure everything is evenly coated and combined.

Step 7: Prepare For Baking

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.

Sprinkle breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese on top for a crispy golden crust.

Step 8: Bake To Perfection

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes until the top turns golden and the edges become bubbly.

Step 9: Serve And Enjoy

Remove from oven and let it rest for a few minutes.

Serve warm and savor the creamy, cheesy goodness.

Secrets To Perfect Cheesy Tuna Mornay

• Use high-quality canned tuna packed in olive oil for richer taste and more robust seafood notes.
• Grate cheese fresh for smoother, creamier sauce that blends more evenly with other ingredients.
• Toast breadcrumbs lightly in butter before sprinkling on top for extra crunch and golden-brown finish.
• Replace regular pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives to suit dietary preferences.
• Add a dash of mustard powder to cheese sauce for subtle tang and depth of flavor without overpowering other ingredients.

Cheesy Tuna Mornay Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 19 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Delightful Cheesy Tuna Mornay creates a comforting classic that blends creamy sauce with tender fish. Seafood enthusiasts will savor each forkful of this hearty Australian-inspired dish that promises satisfaction in every bite.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 can (425 grams / 15 ounces) tuna in spring water, drained
• 2 cups cooked pasta (macaroni, penne)
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Cheese and Topping:

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Supporting Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons plain flour
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 180C (350F) for optimal baking conditions.
2. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then sauté onions until translucent and softened.
3. Sprinkle flour into the butter-onion mixture, stirring continuously for one minute to create a roux.
4. Gradually pour milk into the pan, whisking constantly to prevent lumps and create a smooth, creamy sauce.
5. Remove sauce from heat and fold in sharp cheddar cheese until completely melted and incorporated.
6. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile.
7. In a spacious mixing bowl, gently combine cooked pasta, flaked tuna, and sweet green peas with the prepared cheese sauce.
8. Transfer the creamy mixture into a lightly greased baking dish, ensuring even distribution.
9. Generously scatter breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese across the top for a crispy, golden crust.
10. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes until the surface turns golden and the edges become deliciously bubbly.
11. Allow the mornay to rest for a few minutes before serving to help it set and intensify flavors.

Notes

• Use fresh, high-quality tuna for the best flavor and texture in your mornay.
• Opt for whole wheat pasta to boost nutritional value and add a nutty undertone to the dish.
• Customize the recipe by adding roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients and color.
• For a gluten-free version, replace regular flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 365 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 520 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 29 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg