Tuna Macaroni and Cheese
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with protein, Tuna Macaroni and Cheese is a comforting twist on the classic mac and cheese. This crowd-pleasing recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with a rich, homemade cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and mozzarella. Flaked canned tuna adds a deliciously savory depth, while a crispy, golden panko breadcrumb topping provides the perfect contrast in texture. Ready in just 40 minutes, this easy baked casserole is ideal for busy weeknights and sure to be a family favorite. Perfectly seasoned with hints of garlic and black pepper, it’s a hearty, budget-friendly dish that’s both nostalgic and satisfying.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 5-ounce cans canned tuna in water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden to create a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and mozzarella until melted and smooth.
Add the drained tuna, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder into the cheese sauce. Mix well.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese and tuna mixture, stirring until evenly coated.
Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x9-inch baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
853 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 42.2 g | 54% | |
| Saturated Fat | 24.4 g | 122% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 141 mg | 47% | |
| Sodium | 1470 mg | 64% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 66.6 g | 24% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.6 g | 9% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.1 g | ||
| Protein | 52.9 g | 106% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.1 mcg | 15% | |
| Calcium | 778 mg | 60% | |
| Iron | 3.3 mg | 18% | |
| Potassium | 456 mg | 10% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
