This Sainsbury’s Tuna Penne Pasta Bake is a comforting, family-friendly dish that combines tender penne pasta, flaky tuna, and a creamy cheese sauce baked to golden perfection. It works so well because the simple ingredients come together to create a hearty meal that’s quick to prepare and perfect for weeknights or batch cooking.
Ingredients
- 300g penne pasta
- 2 x 160g cans of tuna in spring water, drained
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 200ml double cream
- 150ml milk
- 150g mature cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp plain flour
- 100g frozen peas
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 50g breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (fan 170°C) / 375°F / Gas Mark 5.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until just al dente (usually about 10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. This will help thicken the sauce.
- Gradually pour in the milk and double cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in the Dijon mustard (if using). Add half of the grated cheese and stir until melted and combined into the sauce.
- Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta, tuna flakes, frozen peas, and creamy cheese sauce. Mix gently to combine everything evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to a lightly oiled ovenproof baking dish (about 20cm x 30cm). Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese evenly over the top. If using, add breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips
- Substitutions: You can use whole wheat or gluten-free penne to suit dietary needs. For a lighter version, swap double cream with crème fraîche or half-fat creme fraiche.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This bake also freezes well; freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid overcooking the pasta before baking as it will become mushy. Also, ensure the sauce is thick enough before mixing with pasta to prevent a watery bake.
- Cheese Choices: Mature cheddar works best for flavor and melting, but you can add a little mozzarella for stretchiness or Parmesan for a sharper taste.
Serving Suggestions
This tuna penne pasta bake is delicious served with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or green beans complement the richness of the bake. For a heartier meal, serve alongside garlic bread or warm crusty rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
Variations
To change things up, try adding chopped sweetcorn or diced bell peppers to the pasta mix for added sweetness and crunch. For a Mediterranean twist, include sun-dried tomatoes and olives. If you prefer a spicier version, stir in a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce. For a lower-carb option, substitute the pasta with cooked cauliflower florets.
Storage and Reheating
After baking, allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a portion in an ovenproof dish, cover with foil, and warm at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating as above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?
Fresh tuna is not recommended for this recipe because canned tuna is already cooked and flakes easily, making it ideal for mixing into pasta bakes. Using fresh tuna would require cooking separately and could alter the texture and moisture balance.
Is it necessary to use double cream in the sauce?
Double cream adds richness and a smooth texture to the sauce, but you can substitute with crème fraîche, single cream, or evaporated milk for a lighter dish. Keep in mind that the sauce may be less thick and creamy without double cream.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a convenient make-ahead meal. Just cover tightly with cling film or foil and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
What if I don’t have penne pasta? What else works?
Any short pasta such as fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle works well in this bake. The key is to use a pasta shape that holds sauce well and bakes evenly.
How can I make this recipe more kid-friendly?
To appeal to children, reduce or omit the Dijon mustard and chili flakes. You can also add extra cheese on top or mix in sweetcorn or peas for familiar flavors and textures. Serving with a side of carrot sticks or cucumber slices can encourage kids to enjoy a balanced meal.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this tuna pasta bake freezes very well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven to maintain texture and flavor.
This recipe strikes a perfect balance between ease, flavor, and comfort, making it a staple for busy households. With simple ingredients from Sainsbury’s and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a delicious tuna penne pasta bake any day of the week.
Related
- Are Hoya Plants Poisonous? What You Need to Know
- Bisporella Citrina: Key Facts and Identification Tips
- Araucaria Araucana: 10 Key Facts About The Monkey Puzzle Tree