Tuna Pasta Bake
A hearty and flavorful tuna pasta bake combining tender spaghetti, flaked tuna, peas, and a savory tomato sauce, all topped with creamy cottage cheese and egg for a comforting meal. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or family gatherings, offering a balanced mix of protein and vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, heat the vegetable oil.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, about 3 minutes.
- Add tomato sauce and dried oregano; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer, stirring occasionally, about 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package instructions, then drain.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, drained and flaked tuna, cooked peas, low-fat cottage cheese, and the slightly beaten egg.
- Mix in the cooked tomato sauce mixture and season with pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the mixture before baking. You can also substitute the cottage cheese with ricotta for a different flavor. If you prefer whole grain, use whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular. Adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can enhance the nutritional value and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Tuna Pasta Bake pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a comforting touch. For added flavor, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top just before serving. Browse more American recipes for additional meal ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Pasta Bake contains roughly 669 calories, with 34g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (87% of the Daily Value), protein (69% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (60% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 932mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Tuna Pasta Bake in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for tuna?
If you're not a fan of tuna, you can substitute it with canned salmon or cooked shredded chicken. Both options will work well and provide a similar texture and flavor to the dish.
Can I freeze this Tuna Pasta Bake?
Yes, this dish freezes well. After baking, cool it completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).