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Mary Berry Tuna Pasta Bake

Mary Berry Tuna Pasta Bake
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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.

Ingredients

Scale

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.

Instructions

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.

Find it online: https://britishbakingrecipes.co.uk/mary-berry-tuna-pasta-bake/