Mary Berry Tuna Pasta Bake Recipe

Mary Berry’s Tuna Pasta Bake is a comforting and delicious dish perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. This creamy, cheesy bake combines tender pasta, flaked tuna, and a rich béchamel sauce, all topped with a golden, crispy layer of cheese. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this recipe is a go-to for any home cook looking to serve a hearty meal.

Mary Berry Tuna Pasta Bake

Mary Berry’s Tuna Pasta Bake is a classic British comfort dish made with cooked pasta, tuna, and a creamy white sauce. It is topped with grated cheese and baked until golden and bubbly. This simple yet satisfying dish is ideal for using pantry staples like canned tuna and dried pasta to create a filling, family-friendly meal.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Comforting and Delicious: The creamy sauce and cheesy topping make it a crowd-pleaser.
• Easy to Make: A simple recipe that uses common ingredients and comes together quickly.
• Great for Leftovers: Perfect for making ahead and reheating.
• Pantry-Friendly: Uses everyday ingredients like tuna, pasta, and cheese.
• Kid-Friendly: Mild flavors that are sure to appeal to even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Tuna Pasta Bake

To make one large bake (serves 4-6), gather the following ingredients:

• 300g (10 oz) pasta (penne or fusilli): The base of the dish, providing structure and texture.
• 2 x 185g (6.5 oz) cans of tuna in water, drained: Adds protein and flavor to the bake.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped: For sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the savory notes.
• 2 tbsp butter: For sautéing and making the béchamel sauce.
• 2 tbsp plain flour: To thicken the béchamel sauce.
• 500ml (2 cups) milk: Forms the base of the creamy sauce.
• 100g (1 cup) grated cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, cheesy topping.
• 50g (¼ cup) grated parmesan (optional): For added depth and flavor.
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds a slight tang to balance the creaminess.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: For seasoning.
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a touch of freshness to the finished dish.

Equipment

Here’s what you’ll need to make Mary Berry Tuna Pasta Bake:

• Large pot: For cooking the pasta.
• Medium saucepan: To prepare the béchamel sauce.
• Casserole or baking dish: To assemble and bake the tuna pasta.
• Wooden spoon: For stirring the sauce.
• Whisk: To ensure a smooth béchamel sauce.
• Oven or microwave: For baking or reheating.

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Tuna Pasta Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Béchamel Sauce

• Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
• Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps.
• Continue to cook the sauce, whisking constantly, until it thickens and comes to a simmer, about 5-7 minutes.
• Stir in Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Tuna, and Sauce

• In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the drained tuna.
• Pour the béchamel sauce over the pasta and tuna mixture, stirring to combine evenly.

Step 5: Assemble the Tuna Pasta Bake

• Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
• Transfer the pasta mixture to a casserole dish.
• Sprinkle the top with the grated cheddar cheese and parmesan (if using).

Step 6: Bake the Tuna Pasta

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• Remove from the oven and let the tuna pasta bake cool slightly before serving.
• Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with a side salad or garlic bread.

What Goes Well with Mary Berry Tuna Pasta Bake?

Here are some great pairings for Mary Berry Tuna Pasta Bake:

• Garlic Bread: The perfect side for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Green Salad: A fresh, light salad adds balance to the richness of the bake.
• Steamed Vegetables: Serve with broccoli, green beans, or carrots for added nutrients.
• Pickled Vegetables: Adds a tangy contrast to the creamy, cheesy pasta.
• Tomato Salad: A refreshing, simple tomato salad complements the hearty bake.
• Coleslaw: The crunch of coleslaw pairs well with the soft texture of the pasta bake.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Tuna Pasta Bake

To make your Tuna Pasta Bake even better, follow these tips:

• Use Good-Quality Tuna: Opt for tuna packed in water or brine for a lighter dish. Tuna in oil will make the bake richer.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta until just al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Add a Crunchy Topping: For added texture, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top along with the cheese.
• Make It Creamier: For a richer bake, you can add a splash of cream to the béchamel sauce.
• Customize the Vegetables: You can add peas, spinach, or sweetcorn to the pasta for added color and flavor.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Tuna Pasta Bake

Looking to change up this classic recipe? Try these variations:

• Spicy Tuna Pasta Bake: Add a pinch of chili flakes or chopped fresh chilies for a bit of heat.
• Vegetable Tuna Pasta Bake: Add cooked vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli for added texture and nutrients.
• Gluten-Free Tuna Pasta Bake: Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour for the sauce to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.
• Lighter Version: Use whole wheat pasta and low-fat milk or cheese to make the dish lighter.
• Herb-Infused Tuna Bake: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme to enhance the flavor.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Tuna Pasta Bake

Here’s how to store your bake for later:

• Refrigeration: Store the tuna pasta bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The bake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Best Practices to Reheat Mary Berry Tuna Pasta Bake

Reheating tuna pasta bake is simple:

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.

How Can I Make Mary Berry Tuna Pasta Bake Healthier?

For a healthier version of this dish, try these tips:

• Use Whole Wheat Pasta: Adds fiber and nutrients without compromising on flavor.
• Swap Butter for Olive Oil: For a lighter sauce, use olive oil instead of butter.
• Low-Fat Cheese and Milk: Use reduced-fat cheese and milk to lower the fat content without losing creaminess.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate more vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrition.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 480
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g

FAQs

Do you have to boil pasta before pasta bakes?

Yes, pasta should be boiled until al dente before adding it to a pasta bake. This ensures that the pasta is tender but firm enough to hold its shape while baking, preventing it from becoming mushy.

Why is my pasta bake dry?

A pasta bake can turn out dry if there isn’t enough sauce or liquid in the dish. To prevent this, ensure that the pasta is well-coated in the sauce before baking, and cover the dish with foil for part of the baking time to retain moisture.

How long can you eat tuna pasta bake?

Tuna pasta bake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container and reheat thoroughly before serving.

How do you thicken pasta bake?

To thicken a pasta bake, you can add more cheese to the sauce, make a thicker béchamel by using extra flour, or mix in a small amount of cornstarch or flour slurry. This helps create a creamier, more cohesive sauce.

Can I freeze tuna pasta bake?

Yes, tuna pasta bake can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or wrapping it in foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 180°C (350°F) until heated through.

What cheese is best for tuna pasta bake?

Cheddar cheese is commonly used for tuna pasta bake due to its sharp flavor and good melting qualities. You can also use mozzarella for a stretchier texture or parmesan for added depth of flavor.

How do I stop tuna pasta bake from becoming too watery?

To prevent tuna pasta bake from becoming watery, ensure that the pasta is well-drained after cooking and avoid using too much liquid in the sauce. If the sauce seems too runny, you can simmer it longer before mixing it with the pasta to reduce the liquid content.

Can I add vegetables to the tuna pasta bake?

Yes, adding vegetables like peas, spinach, or broccoli to tuna pasta bake is a great way to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish. You can blanch or sauté the vegetables before mixing them with the pasta and sauce for even cooking.

Final Words

The Mary Berry Tuna Pasta Bake Recipe is a comforting, cheesy dish that’s perfect for family meals. With its creamy sauce and golden, bubbly top, this pasta bake is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for leftovers, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Give it a try today and enjoy a warm, hearty meal that everyone will love!

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