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Tuna Mornay Recipe: The Ultimate Creamy Tuna Casserole Pasta Bake


  • Author: Stacy
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 Serving 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 350g / 12oz penne pasta (or other short pasta)
  • 40g / 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 4 tbsp (50g) plain/all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups (1 litre) milk (any fat %, dairy or non-dairy)
  • 2 tsp vegetable or chicken stock powder (like Vegeta or bouillon)
  • 1/2 cup (50g) parmesan, finely shredded
  • 1/2 tsp each mustard powder, onion powder, and garlic powder
  • 425g / 15 oz canned tuna, preferably in oil, drained
  • 400g / 14 oz canned corn, drained (or substitute with peas or other vegetables)

Crunchy Topping

  • 25g / 1.5 tbsp butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup (60g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup (25g) parmesan, finely grated
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crunchy Topping

  • In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, melted butter, and salt. Set aside.

2. Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook pasta according to package directions, reducing the cooking time by 1 minute so it’s just under al dente.
  • Drain and return to the pot.

3. Make the White Sauce

  • In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  • Gradually whisk in about one-third of the milk, ensuring the mixture is smooth before adding the rest.
  • Add the stock powder, mustard powder, onion powder, and garlic powder. Whisk to combine.
  • Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens (about 4–5 minutes). You should be able to draw a path on the back of a spoon.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the parmesan cheese.

4. Assemble the Tuna Mornay

  • Flake the tuna into large chunks with a fork (don’t over-mix to avoid mushiness).
  • Add the tuna and corn to the pot with the drained pasta.
  • Pour the white sauce over the pasta mixture and gently stir to combine.

5. Bake

  • Preheat oven to 180°C/350°F.
  • Transfer the mixture to a large baking dish.
  • Sprinkle the prepared crunchy topping evenly over the surface.
  • Bake for 25 minutes, until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.
  • Garnish with chives or parsley if desired.

6. Serve

  • Let the tuna mornay sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
  • Serve hot with a crisp salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Stock Powder: Vegeta is a popular vegetable stock powder in Australia, but any chicken or vegetable bouillon works well.
  • Vegetable Add-ins: Swap corn for peas, or add cooked carrots, broccoli, or spinach for extra nutrition.
  • Tuna: Tuna in oil provides the best flavor, but spring water or brine is fine.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze. Add a splash of milk when reheating to keep it creamy.
  • Leftovers: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
  • Crunchy Topping Variations: Try crushed cornflakes, crispy fried onions, or even potato chips for a twist.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Australian, Western

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 659 kcal
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 1374mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 82g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 41g
  • Cholesterol: 73mg

Keywords: Tuna Mornay Recipe