There's nothing like the comforting, creamy taste of Cheesy Tuna Mornay to warm you up on a chilly evening. This hearty dish combines flaky tuna, tender pasta, and a luscious cheese sauce, all baked to bubbly perfection. It's the ultimate crowd-pleaser for family dinners or potlucks.

I first discovered this gem of a recipe while looking for a quick pantry meal to feed my kids on a busy weeknight. Now, it's a regular in our dinner rotation, earning rave reviews every time.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Tuna Mornay

Get ready to embrace your new favorite comfort food. This Cheesy Tuna Mornay checks all the boxes for an easy, affordable, and downright delicious meal.

First, it's a breeze to prepare, using mostly pantry staples like canned tuna and pasta. In less than an hour, you can have a hot, satisfying dinner on the table, making it perfect for weeknights when time is short.

Not only is it quick, but it's also wonderfully budget-friendly. With a handful of affordable ingredients, you can whip up a meal that serves the whole family without breaking the bank.

This recipe is endlessly versatile, too. Whether you prefer to add more veggies, swap the pasta for rice, or tweak the cheese blend to suit your taste, Tuna Mornay adapts beautifully.

Best of all, it delivers comfort in every bite. From the creamy sauce to the golden, cheesy topping, this dish is guaranteed to leave you and your loved ones feeling full and happy.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this Cheesy Tuna Mornay is its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here's a closer look at what makes this dish shine.

The pasta is the foundation of the dish, and I recommend elbow macaroni or penne. These shapes hold onto the sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite is creamy and delicious. Feel free to use gluten-free pasta if needed.

The star of the dish is canned tuna. Choose tuna packed in water for a lighter option, or opt for tuna in oil for a richer flavor. Either way, be sure to drain it well before adding it to the sauce.

For the cheese sauce, a combination of cheddar cheese and Parmesan creates a bold, tangy flavor. The cheddar provides the creamy base, while the Parmesan adds a savory depth.

The sauce also features a blend of milk, butter, and flour, forming a classic roux that thickens the mixture to perfection. If you're looking to lighten things up, you can substitute the milk with a lower-fat option or even plant-based milk.

To add texture and a golden finish, top the Mornay with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter. This creates a crunchy, buttery crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.

How To Make This Cheesy Tuna Mornay

Making Cheesy Tuna Mornay is simpler than you might think, even if you're new to cooking casseroles. Follow these easy steps to bring it to life.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook until just al dente – it'll continue to cook slightly in the oven. Drain and set aside.

While the pasta is boiling, prepare the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a smooth paste. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

Once the sauce has thickened, stir in shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.

Combine the cooked pasta, drained tuna, and cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl. Gently fold until everything is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.

For the topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the pasta. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

Let it cool slightly before serving. The result is a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that’s perfect on its own or paired with a side salad.

Storage Options

Cheesy Tuna Mornay stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled Mornay to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish. Wrap the baking dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When reheating, thaw frozen Mornay in the fridge overnight if necessary. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use a microwave for quicker results.

Variations and Substitutions

Cheesy Tuna Mornay is a wonderfully flexible recipe that can be tailored to suit your preferences.

For added veggies, stir in cooked peas, corn, or finely chopped broccoli before baking. This boosts the nutritional value while adding color and texture.

If you're not a fan of tuna, swap it out for cooked chicken, ham, or even salmon. It’s a fantastic way to repurpose leftovers.

Prefer a different cheese profile? Experiment with Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a smoky Gouda for a unique twist on the classic.

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. The sauce can also be thickened with cornstarch instead of flour.

Feeling adventurous? Add a dash of hot sauce or Dijon mustard to the cheese sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Cheesy Tuna Mornay is the ultimate customizable comfort food. Whether you're sticking to the classic or putting your own spin on it, you're in for a treat every time.