There's something irresistibly comforting about Cheesy Tuna Mornay – a creamy, cheesy, and savory bake that brings warmth to any meal. With its golden, bubbling top and rich, flavorful sauce, this dish is a family favorite that satisfies cravings without breaking the bank.

I first discovered this recipe as a quick dinner solution during a busy week, and it quickly became a staple. It's perfect for using pantry staples like canned tuna and pasta, making it a go-to on hectic evenings. Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a spot in your rotation!

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Tuna Mornay

Get ready to meet your new favorite comfort food. Cheesy Tuna Mornay is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and a budget-friendly, nutritious meal.

First, this dish is a breeze to make. With minimal prep and just a handful of pantry ingredients, you'll have dinner ready in under an hour. The simple steps make it ideal for weeknights when time is of the essence.

Secondly, it's a budget-friendly option that doesn't skimp on flavor. Canned tuna and a basic cheese sauce come together to create a dish that feels indulgent without the hefty price tag.

Not to mention, it’s incredibly versatile. Add your favorite veggies, swap out the pasta type, or mix in some spices to customize it to your family’s taste.

Finally, the leftovers are just as good. This recipe reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or an easy lunch the next day.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Cheesy Tuna Mornay lies in its combination of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together in the most delicious way.

Canned Tuna: Choose high-quality canned tuna in water for the best flavor and texture. You can also use tuna in oil for a richer result, but be sure to drain it well.
Pasta: Medium shapes like penne, macaroni, or shells work best, as they hold onto the sauce beautifully. Gluten-free pasta is an easy substitution if needed.
Cheese: A mix of cheddar and parmesan is ideal here. The cheddar provides creamy richness, while parmesan adds a savory depth. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, like Gruyère or mozzarella.
Milk and Butter: These form the base of the béchamel sauce, creating a creamy texture that’s perfect for this dish. Use full-fat milk for the creamiest sauce, or a non-dairy milk like oat or almond for a lighter version.
Veggies (Optional): Frozen peas, corn, or diced carrots add color and a touch of sweetness to the dish. Sautéed mushrooms or spinach work well, too, for a heartier meal.
Breadcrumbs (Optional): Adding a layer of breadcrumbs mixed with a little butter on top creates a golden, crispy crust that elevates the dish.

You’ll also need a large saucepan, a baking dish, and a whisk to ensure the sauce is silky smooth.

How To Make This Cheesy Tuna Mornay

Making Cheesy Tuna Mornay is simpler than you think, and the payoff is absolutely worth it. Here’s how to whip it up step by step.

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking your chosen pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Simmer until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Add the Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the cheddar and parmesan until fully melted. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for added warmth.
Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the cooked pasta, canned tuna, and any optional veggies into the sauce until well coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
Top and Bake: If desired, sprinkle a mix of breadcrumbs and additional cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and bubbling.
Serve and Enjoy: Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with a crisp green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Storage Options

One of the best things about Cheesy Tuna Mornay is how well it keeps, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.
Freeze: This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat: For the best results, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, until warmed through. The microwave works too, but the sauce may separate slightly.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, making it easy to tailor to your preferences or dietary needs.

Protein Swap: Not a fan of tuna? Try cooked shredded chicken, canned salmon, or even cooked shrimp as a tasty alternative.
Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and vegan cheese to make a dairy-free version.
Low-Carb: Substitute pasta with cooked cauliflower florets or spiralized zucchini for a lighter option.
Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the béchamel for a spicy twist.
Herbs: Fresh parsley, dill, or chives add brightness to the finished dish. Sprinkle them on top just before serving.

With so many options, you can make Cheesy Tuna Mornay your own while keeping it just as delicious.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're feeding a crowd, prepping for a busy week, or just indulging in some comfort food, Cheesy Tuna Mornay delivers every time. With its creamy sauce, hearty ingredients, and customizable flavors, it’s no wonder this dish has been a favorite for generations.

Give it a try tonight, and don’t forget to share your own twists on this classic recipe in the comments below!