tuna and mac and cheese recipe

The Best tuna and mac and cheese recipe

I’m so excited to share this classic tuna and mac and cheese recipe with you all. This comforting dish is a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will be in yours too.

I remember my mom making it for me when I was a kid, and now I make it for my own family. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend gathering.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills. In this recipe, I’ll guide you through the process of creating a delicious and creamy tuna and mac and cheese that your family will love.

One of the things I love about this recipe is the way the flavors come together – the richness of the cheese, the savory taste of the tuna, and the slight crunch of the pasta all combine to create a truly satisfying meal. And let’s not forget about the health benefits – this dish is packed with protein, calcium, and complex carbohydrates to keep you energized throughout the day.

So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the warm fuzzy feeling that comes with sharing a home-cooked meal with your loved ones.

Tuna and Mac and Cheese

4.8 from 785 votes

A comforting and flavorful dish combining tender tuna with creamy mac and cheese. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder

For the Tuna Mixture

2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/4 cup chopped red onion
1/4 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup chopped pickles

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
3Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
4Drain and set aside.
5In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
6Add flour and whisk to form a roux.
7Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until it turns light brown.
8Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
9Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
10Remove from heat and add 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
11Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
12In a bowl, mix together drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, red onion, celery, and pickles.
13Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a baking dish, then gently fold in the tuna mixture.
14Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
15Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
16Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan
Colander
Large pot
Wooden spoon
Baking dish

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add more vegetables like peas or broccoli to make it healthier.

Watch Video Of How Tuna and Mac and Cheese Works

This tuna and mac and cheese recipe is always a hit at family gatherings or as an easy weeknight meal. It’s one of those comforting dishes that never fails to satisfy our hunger.

To store leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for longer storage. When reheating leftovers, add some extra milk or cream if needed to maintain its creamy texture.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Tuna and Mac and Cheese

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

A: For this tuna and mac and cheese recipe, I recommend using elbow macaroni or small shells. These shapes hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly and are easy to cook al dente.

Q: Can I use canned light tuna instead of regular tuna?

A: Yes, you can use canned light tuna if that’s what you have on hand. Just be aware that it may have a slightly different flavor profile compared to fresh tuna.

Q: How do I prevent the macaroni from becoming mushy?

A: To avoid overcooking the pasta, make sure to cook it al dente according to package instructions. Then, add it to the cheese sauce towards the end of cooking time so it still retains some texture.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

A: You can easily substitute tuna with cooked vegetables like broccoli or carrots for a delicious veggie-packed alternative.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers without drying out the macaroni?

A: When reheating leftover macaroni and cheese, add a splash of milk or cream to revive its creamy texture.

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