macaroni and cheese with tuna fish recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best macaroni and cheese with tuna fish recipe

I love macaroni and cheese with tuna fish recipe, it’s a classic comfort food dish that never fails to please. My family and I have been making it for years, and it’s always a hit. The combination of the creamy pasta, the savory tuna, and the melted cheese is just perfect.

It’s a dish that’s easy to make and customize to your taste. I like to add some steamed vegetables to make it a bit healthier. The key to making a great macaroni and cheese with tuna fish is to use high-quality ingredients and to not overcook the pasta.

You want it to be al dente so that it holds its shape in the sauce. The technique of mixing the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce is also crucial – you want to fold it in gently so that the cheese doesn’t get all over the place. This recipe has been passed down through generations of my family, and I’m happy to share it with you today.

I’ve added my own twist by using low-fat cheese and tuna in water, which makes it a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor. My kids love helping me cook this dish, as it’s easy for them to mix everything together and watch it transform into a delicious meal. We like to serve it with some garlic bread on the side for an extra-special treat.

Macaroni and cheese with tuna fish is a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will become one in yours too.

Macaroni and Cheese with Tuna

Macaroni and Cheese with Tuna

4.7 from 1352 votes

A comforting and hearty casserole that combines creamy macaroni and cheese with flaked tuna. This easy one-dish meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta and Tuna

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 cans (5 ounces each) tuna, drained and flaked

For the Cheese Sauce

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Topping

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
5In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the 3 tablespoons of butter.
6Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbly and golden.
7Gradually whisk in the milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
8Continue to cook over medium heat, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens and comes to a gentle simmer, about 5 minutes.
9Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese until completely melted and smooth.
10The sauce should be thick and creamy.
11In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, flaked tuna, and the cheese sauce.
12Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
13Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
14In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter until well combined.
15Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
16Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crispy.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Medium saucepan
Whisk
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 680mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheddar and skim milk. You can also add a cup of frozen peas along with the tuna for extra color and nutrition.

Watch Video Of How Macaroni and Cheese with Tuna Works

This macaroni and cheese with tuna is one of those dishes I keep coming back to because it fits almost any occasion, from a quick weeknight dinner to a big family gathering where everyone wants something warm and familiar.

It feeds a crowd without much fuss, and I can double the batch when more people show up.

If you need a reliable dish that pleases kids and adults at the same table, this is the one I reach for.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Macaroni and Cheese with Tuna

Q1: What type of macaroni should I use for this recipe?

A1: You can use any type of macaroni you prefer, but I find that a short, tubular shape works best for this recipe. Elbow macaroni or shells are good choices.

Q2: How much tuna should I add?

A2: You can adjust the amount of tuna to your taste, but I find that about 1/2 cup is perfect for this recipe.

Q3: Can I make this recipe without cheese?

A3: While cheese is an essential component of this recipe, you can omit it if you’re lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free diet.

Q4: How do I store leftover macaroni and cheese with tuna fish?

A4: You can store leftover macaroni and cheese with tuna fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q5: Can I reheat this dish safely?

A5: Yes, you can reheat this dish safely by microwaving or oven-broiling it until hot and bubbly.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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