Introduction:
Tuna Mornay is a classic comfort dish that combines tender chunks of tuna with a luscious, creamy sauce, all topped with a cheesy breadcrumb crust. It's a hearty and satisfying meal that's both easy to prepare and incredibly delicious. In this recipe, we'll guide you through creating a Tuna Mornay that will quickly become a family favorite.
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Ingredients:
2 cans (12 ounces each) of canned tuna, drained
2 cups cooked macaroni or pasta of your choice
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish (approximately 9x13 inches) and set it aside.
2. Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the macaroni or pasta of your choice according to the package instructions until it's al dente. Drain and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Tuna
Open the cans of tuna, drain the liquid, and flake the tuna into small chunks with a fork. Set it aside.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onions and garlic. Stir well to combine, creating a roux. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring the flour is fully incorporated and lightly toasted.
Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens, usually about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add Cheese and Seasoning
Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until they melt into the sauce, creating a creamy, cheesy mixture.
If you're adding frozen peas for extra flavor and color, mix them into the sauce at this stage.
Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Combine Tuna and Pasta
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and flaked tuna. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the pasta and tuna. Gently fold everything together until it's well coated with the sauce.
7. Prepare the Crust
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. This will create a flavorful, crispy crust for your Tuna Mornay.
8. Assemble and Bake
Transfer the tuna and pasta mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
9. Bake and Garnish
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
Once done, remove the Tuna Mornay from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
10. Serve and Enjoy
Scoop generous portions of Tuna Mornay onto plates and savor the creamy, cheesy goodness of this comforting dish. It's the perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Conclusion:
Tuna Mornay is a timeless favorite that's sure to satisfy your craving for a creamy, cheesy, and seafood-infused delight. It's perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you want to enjoy the flavors of the sea with a touch of homey comfort. Serve it up, and watch everyone at the table savor every bite!
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