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Crispy tuna and pasta bake

5 from 1 vote
You’ve probably come across countless pasta bake recipes, but Crispy tuna and pasta bake stands out in a league of its own. Perfectly baked pasta mingling with chunks of succulent tuna, all nestled under a golden crispy topping. It’s hearty, wholesome, and promises a culinary experience that’s as comforting as it is delicious. If you’ve ever wondered how to bring this dish to life in your kitchen, keep reading, and let’s embark on this gastronomic journey together.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 475
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Tuna: 14 oz 400 grams (canned, drained)
  • Pasta penne or fusilli: 8 oz (227 grams)
  • Freshly grated cheddar cheese: 1 cup 110 grams
  • Olive oil: 2 tbsp 30 ml
  • Fresh cream: 1/2 cup 120 ml
  • Onions: 1 finely chopped
  • Tomatoes: 2 diced
  • Crushed garlic cloves: 2
  • Broccoli florets: 1/2 cup 50 grams
  • Salt: to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper: to taste
  • Bread crumbs: 1/2 cup 60 grams

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Boil the pasta according to the packet instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a pan, heat the olive oil and sauté the onions until translucent. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
  4. Introduce the diced tomatoes and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until a sauce forms.
  5. Fold in the drained tuna chunks. Season with salt and black pepper.
  6. Gently mix in the fresh cream and bring to a gentle boil.
  7. Add in the broccoli florets and let it cook for 3-4 minutes.
  8. Mix the sauce with the cooked pasta. Ensure every bit of pasta is coated nicely.
  9. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
  10. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese generously on top.
  11. Top it off with breadcrumbs to give that crispy finish.
  12. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes or until the top turns golden and crispy.

Notes

For a richer flavor, consider adding a touch of dried Italian herbs or a bay leaf while making the sauce.
Always drain the tuna well to avoid making the dish too watery.
To add a twist, sprinkle some red chili flakes before baking for a spicy kick.
If you prefer a cheesy interior, consider mixing half the cheese within the pasta and use the other half for topping.
Ladle out a generous portion of the Crispy tuna and pasta bake onto plates. Accompany it with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables. A slice of garlic bread can be an added bonus. Complete the meal with a cold drink of your choice.