Mary Berry's Tuna Pasta Bake
Mary Berry's Tuna Pasta Bake is a classic, comforting dish that beautifully combines the flavors of tuna, pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce. It's a recipe crafted by Mary Berry, a renowned British chef and television personality, known for her straightforward yet delicious dishes. This particular recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy gathering, offering both versatility and ease of preparation.
Ingredients List
- Penne or rigatoni pasta (about 300g to 400g)
- Canned tuna chunks in spring water (2 cans), drained
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Chopped tomatoes (400g can)
- Cream cheese (around 200g)
- Grated cheddar cheese (approximately 150g)
- Olive oil
- Dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven and greasing a baking dish.
- Cook the pasta al dente as per package instructions and set aside.
- Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft.
- Add chopped tomatoes and oregano to the sautéed mixture, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Incorporate the tuna, breaking it into flakes.
- Remove from heat and blend in cream cheese to form a creamy sauce.
- Mix the cooked pasta with the tuna and cream cheese mixture, ensuring even coating.
- Transfer this mixture to your baking dish, topping it with grated cheddar cheese.
- Bake until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For freezing, portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, bake in a preheated oven covered with foil, or use a microwave, reheating in intervals and stirring in between.
Nutritional Information
Per serving, this dish approximately contains:
- Calories: 400-500 kcal
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 45-55g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Fiber: 2-4g
- Sodium: 500-700 mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned? Yes, but canned tuna is preferred for convenience.
- Can I add vegetables to the recipe? Absolutely! Consider sautéing vegetables like bell peppers or spinach and adding them to the mix.
- How can I make the recipe creamier? You could experiment with different cheeses or add a bit more cream cheese.
- Is it possible to make this dish spicier? Yes, try adding chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato and tuna mixture.
Mary Berry's Tuna Pasta Bake is a delightful, cheesy comfort food that's both satisfying and easy to make. It's a versatile recipe that allows for customization with different types of pasta, cheeses, and added vegetables. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering, it's a dish that's sure to please everyone.
This recipe is an adaptation of Mary Berry's original recipe.