Crunchy Melty Tuna and Broccoli Pasta Bake

This hearty and flavorful tuna and broccoli pasta bake is the ultimate comfort food. With a crispy breadcrumb topping and a creamy, cheesy sauce, it’s a satisfying dish that the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this pasta bake is easy to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces (340g) pasta of your choice (penne, rotini, or similar)
• 2 cans (5 ounces each) tuna in water, drained and flaked
• 2 cups broccoli florets, blanched

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Cook the Pasta

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
2. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Pasta Bake

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, flaked tuna, blanched broccoli florets, and the prepared cheese sauce. Stir until everything is well coated.
2. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 4: Make the Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.

Step 5: Bake the Pasta

1. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the pasta mixture in the baking dish.
2. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the sauce is bubbly around the edges.
3. Once baked, remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Garnish the pasta bake with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.
2. Serve the crunchy melty tuna and broccoli pasta bake warm, and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures!

Note:

Feel free to customize this pasta bake by adding additional ingredients such as diced tomatoes, chopped spinach, or sliced mushrooms. You can also substitute different types of cheese according to your preference.