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