macaroni cheese tuna recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best macaroni cheese tuna recipe

I’ve been making this macaroni cheese tuna recipe for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. My kids love it when I add some diced veggies to the mix, and my husband appreciates the protein boost from the tuna.

As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy this recipe is to make – just boil some pasta, mix in some cheese and tuna, and serve. It’s a classic comfort food that never goes out of style.

I’ve served it at family gatherings, potlucks, and even just as a quick weeknight dinner. My kids are always asking for seconds (and sometimes even thirds!)

This recipe has become a staple in our household because it’s so versatile – we can add different types of cheese, veggies, or even meat to make it our own. Plus, it’s a great way to get in some essential nutrients like calcium and omega-3s from the fish.

I love that this recipe is so straightforward – no fancy techniques required! Just cook the pasta until it’s al dente, mix in some cheese sauce (which I make from scratch using butter and flour), and then add in the tuna and any desired add-ins.

It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that never fails to please.

Macaroni Cheese Tuna Bake

Macaroni Cheese Tuna Bake

4.5 from 541 votes

A comforting and hearty baked pasta dish combining tender macaroni, creamy cheese sauce, and flaked tuna. This easy recipe makes a satisfying weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta and Tuna

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained and flaked

For the Cheese Sauce

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika

For the Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon melted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
4Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
5In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
6Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until the mixture is bubbly and lightly golden.
7Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
8Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens and comes to a gentle simmer, about 3 to 4 minutes.
9Reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika.
10Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
11In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, flaked tuna, and the cheese sauce.
12Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
13Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
14In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top.
15Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
16Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Medium saucepan
Whisk
9×13 inch baking dish
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 55mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

Tips: For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduce the cheese by half. You can also add a cup of steamed peas or broccoli for extra vegetables.

Watch Video Of How Macaroni Cheese Tuna Bake Works

I always make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage. When reheating, simply microwave or oven-bake until hot through – no need to reheat thoroughly!

This macaroni cheese tuna recipe works well for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or an impressive dish for guests. It’s also perfect for potlucks or picnics where you need something easy to transport and serve.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Macaroni Cheese Tuna Bake

Q1: What kind of pasta should I use for this recipe?

A1: You can use any type of pasta you like best – I prefer elbow macaroni because it holds onto the cheese sauce well. However, feel free to experiment with other shapes like shells or rotini if you prefer. Just be sure to cook the pasta until it’s al dente before mixing it with the cheese sauce.

Q2: Can I use canned tuna instead of fresh?

A2: Yes, you can definitely use canned tuna if that’s what you have on hand. Just drain the liquid from the can and rinse the tuna with cold water before adding it to your macaroni cheese mixture.

Q3: How do I prevent the cheese sauce from getting too thick?

A3: To avoid a too-thick cheese sauce, be sure to stir constantly while you’re adding the milk to your butter-flour mixture. You can also adjust the amount of milk you add based on how thick or thin you prefer your sauce.

Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A4: Yes, you can prepare this recipe up to a day in advance by cooking the pasta and making the cheese sauce separately. Then simply combine them with the tuna just before serving.

Q5: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A5: No, unfortunately not – this recipe contains tuna which is not vegetarian-friendly.

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