Creamy Broccoli and Tuna Pasta Bake

This creamy broccoli and tuna pasta bake is the ultimate comfort food for busy nights. Made with simple pantry staples like canned tuna, pasta, and frozen peas, it’s a budget-friendly recipe that’s easy to prepare and loved by the whole family.

The cheesy sauce wraps around every bite of pasta, with the freshness of broccoli and the protein boost from tuna making it both delicious and nourishing. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner, a make-ahead meal, or something hearty for the weekend, this dish is a winner.

Ingredients

12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or fusilli)
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
1 cup frozen peas
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
1 ½ cups milk
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tbsp butter
½ tsp mustard powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Boil pasta in salted water until just al dente.
In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets.
Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

Heat olive oil in a saucepan.
Sauté onions for 2–3 minutes, then add garlic.
Stir in butter and flour, cooking for 1 minute.
Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and thickened.
Add mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
Stir in cheese until melted.

Step 3: Assemble the Bake

In a large bowl, mix pasta, broccoli, tuna, peas, and sauce.
Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle extra cheese and breadcrumbs on top.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Benefits

This pasta bake is not only comforting but also balanced:

Broccoli: packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
Tuna: high in lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Cheese and milk: create a creamy sauce while adding calcium and flavor.

It’s a dish that satisfies cravings while still offering plenty of nutritional value.

Why This Recipe Works

Quick and easy: Ready in about 40 minutes.
Budget-friendly: Uses pantry staples like tuna, pasta, and frozen veggies.
Family-approved: Creamy, cheesy, and kid-friendly.
Customizable: Swap vegetables, proteins, or toppings to fit your taste.

Variations and Swaps

Protein swaps: Use chicken, salmon, or chickpeas instead of tuna.
Vegetable add-ins: Try zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, or corn.
Sauce options: Lighten it with Greek yogurt, make it dairy-free with plant-based cheese, or add pesto for extra flavor.
Topping ideas: Breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or extra cheese for crunch.

Meal Prep and Storage

Refrigerate: Store leftovers for up to 3–4 days.
Freeze: Bake or freeze unbaked for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven.
Meal prep: Make ahead for easy weeknight dinners or lunches.

Tips for Success

Cook pasta slightly underdone—it will finish cooking in the oven.
Drain tuna well to prevent a watery bake.
Use sharp cheddar for more flavor with less cheese.
Let the bake rest 5–10 minutes before serving.

Conclusion

The creamy broccoli and tuna pasta bake is a simple, filling, and versatile recipe you’ll keep coming back to. It’s a pantry-friendly dish that saves time, reduces stress, and delivers both comfort and nutrition.

Whether for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family gatherings, this recipe is a true kitchen staple. With just a few everyday ingredients, you can create a meal that’s hearty, wholesome, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients