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Tuna Pasta Bake Recipe

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4.1 from 4 reviews

A delicious and easy Tuna Pasta Bake recipe featuring tender pasta and broccoli mixed with a rich tomato sauce, tuna, and cherry tomatoes, all topped with melted mature cheddar cheese. Perfect for a comforting family meal ready in just 40 minutes.

Ingredients

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 300 g dried pasta
  • 300 g broccoli (one medium-sized head)
  • 300 g cherry tomatoes, halved

Sauce

  • 500 g passata
  • 3 tbsp tomato puree
  • 2 tsp garlic granules
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Protein and Cheese

  • 200 g tinned tuna (two regular-sized tins, drained)
  • 150 g mature cheddar cheese, grated

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200℃ (400°F) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the dish later.
  2. Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dried pasta and cook according to the package instructions. About 4 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water to cook them together.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta and broccoli cook, mix together the passata, tomato puree, garlic granules, dried oregano, balsamic vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a bowl or jug until well combined.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Drain the cooked pasta and broccoli thoroughly. Return them to the pot or a large bowl and add the prepared sauce, drained tuna, and halved cherry tomatoes. Mix everything well to evenly coat the pasta and ensure all ingredients are incorporated.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture into a roasting dish. Sprinkle the grated mature cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  6. Serve: Remove from the oven carefully and let the bake sit for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty Tuna Pasta Bake warm.

Notes

  • If you prefer, use fusilli or penne pasta for better sauce adhesion.
  • Broccoli can be substituted with other quick-cooking vegetables like green beans or asparagus.
  • Adjust garlic and oregano quantities based on your flavor preference.
  • For a lighter option, use reduced-fat cheddar cheese or mozzarella.
  • Ensure tuna is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the bake.