There's nothing like the creamy comfort of a Cheesy Tuna Mornay to brighten up a busy weeknight. With tender pasta, rich cheesy sauce, and flaky tuna baked to golden perfection, this dish is both nostalgic and delicious.

I first tried Tuna Mornay as a child, and it instantly became a family favorite. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor – the ultimate comfort food. Let me show you how to make it your new household staple!

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Tuna Mornay

This Cheesy Tuna Mornay is guaranteed to become a favorite at your table. From its creamy texture to its irresistible golden crust, there’s so much to love about this dish.

First, it’s a one-dish wonder, making it incredibly easy to prepare and serve. With minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for those busy evenings when you want something hearty but low-effort.

It’s also budget-friendly. Using pantry staples like canned tuna and pasta, you can create a meal that feels indulgent without breaking the bank.

Another reason to love it? It’s kid-approved. Even the pickiest eaters will dig into this creamy, cheesy casserole without hesitation.

Lastly, it’s versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheeses, making it adaptable to whatever you have in your kitchen.

Ingredients Notes

The key to this Cheesy Tuna Mornay lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one brings something special to the dish:

Canned Tuna: Choose quality canned tuna in spring water or brine for the best flavor. Chunky varieties work great here to add texture.
Pasta: Elbow macaroni, penne, or shells are perfect for holding the sauce. You can also use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Cheese: A combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan creates a rich, savory flavor. Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt.
Butter and Flour: These form the base of the roux, which thickens the sauce to creamy perfection.
Milk: Whole milk creates a luscious sauce, but you can substitute with 2% or non-dairy alternatives like unsweetened almond milk.
Vegetables: Frozen peas add a pop of color and sweetness. You can also toss in chopped broccoli, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrients.
Breadcrumbs: A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top adds a satisfying crunch when baked to golden brown.

You’ll also need a 9x13-inch baking dish and a medium saucepan to prepare the sauce.

How To Make This Cheesy Tuna Mornay

Making Cheesy Tuna Mornay is surprisingly easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure perfect results every time:

Cook the pasta. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Prepare the sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in 2 ½ cups of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Add the cheese. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for extra depth of flavor.
Combine the ingredients. In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, 2 cans of tuna (drained), 1 cup of frozen peas, and the cheesy sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Assemble and bake. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with ½ cup of breadcrumbs and an additional ½ cup of shredded cheddar. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Cool and serve. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Storage Options

Leftover Cheesy Tuna Mornay is just as delicious the next day! Here’s how to store it properly:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave for a quick meal.
Freezer: Tuna Mornay freezes well. Portion into individual servings and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat frozen Tuna Mornay in the oven until warmed through. This keeps the topping crispy.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly flexible, so feel free to make it your own!

Vegetarian Version: Replace the tuna with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a meat-free option.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend to make the roux.
Add Protein: Swap out tuna for cooked chicken, turkey, or even diced ham.
Spicy Twist: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
Extra Veggies: Toss in roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or cauliflower to pack in more nutrients.

This Cheesy Tuna Mornay is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal-prep for the week. Its creamy, cheesy layers will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds – guaranteed!