Get ready for a comforting and mouthwatering dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes! This hearty recipe combines al dente rigatoni pasta with flaky tuna, a creamy cheese sauce, and a generous amount of melted cheese on top. The result is a satisfying and flavorful bake that will leave you reaching back for seconds. Let’s begin!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 2 cans (5 ounces each) tuna in water, drained
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Cook the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until well combined, creating a roux.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the tuna mixture in the mixing bowl. Stir until everything is well coated.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle some extra shredded mozzarella cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve the Tuna Pasta Bake warm and enjoy!
Notes
Feel free to add sautéed onions, garlic, or your favorite vegetables (like peas or spinach) to the tuna mixture for added flavor and texture. Experiment with different types of cheese in the sauce, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack, to customize the flavor profile of the bake. For a crunchy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle it over the cheese before baking. Serve this dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables to add freshness and balance to your meal. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal the next day.
*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 525
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 65g
