Tuna Macaroni and Cheese Meal
Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this creamy and comforting Tuna Macaroni and Cheese Meal, a delightful twist on the classic mac and cheese. Combining al dente elbow macaroni, a rich cheddar cheese sauce, and tender flakes of canned tuna, this recipe is as hearty as it is satisfying. Topped with golden, crispy breadcrumbs for a perfect crunch, this baked casserole is elevated with subtle hints of garlic powder and black pepper for a flavor-packed bite. Ready in just 35 minutes from start to finish, this easy-to-make dish is ideal for busy families and seafood lovers alike. Garnished with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish, this dish is sure to become a new household favorite! Keywords: Tuna Macaroni and Cheese, baked mac and cheese, easy weeknight dinner, seafood casserole, comfort food recipe.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cans canned tuna (in water, drained)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux, ensuring the mixture does not brown.
Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, to avoid lumps. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, mixing well.
Fold the drained tuna and cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring to combine evenly.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Transfer the tuna macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x9-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
773 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 36.6 g | 47% | |
| Saturated Fat | 20.9 g | 105% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 125 mg | 42% | |
| Sodium | 1304 mg | 57% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 64.9 g | 24% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.2 g | ||
| Protein | 49.0 g | 98% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.4 mcg | 17% | |
| Calcium | 581 mg | 45% | |
| Iron | 3.5 mg | 20% | |
| Potassium | 500 mg | 11% | |
*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.
