There’s something about the creamy, cheesy goodness of Tuna Mornay that feels like a warm hug on a cold evening. This easy-to-make, family-friendly dish combines tender chunks of tuna, creamy cheese sauce, and a golden topping, making it the perfect comfort food for a busy weeknight.

I first tried making Tuna Mornay on a chilly Sunday afternoon, and it quickly became a staple in our household. It's one of those meals that comes together quickly, but tastes like you've spent hours in the kitchen. If you love creamy casseroles or simple, satisfying dinners, this recipe is for you.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Tuna Mornay

This Cheesy Tuna Mornay is sure to become a favorite, and here's why:

First and foremost, it's incredibly quick and easy to prepare. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you're cooking for a busy family or need something to feed guests on short notice, this recipe is a lifesaver.

Next, it’s a budget-friendly option that won’t break the bank. Canned tuna, frozen peas, and pantry staples like cheese and milk make this a cost-effective meal. You can serve a hearty casserole that will feed your family for a fraction of the cost of takeout.

What makes this dish even better is how versatile it is. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Love mushrooms? Toss in a handful. Prefer a lighter version? Use low-fat cheese or add extra vegetables to the mix. It’s a customizable dinner that works for almost any palate or dietary need.

And don’t forget about the creamy cheese sauce. The combination of melted cheddar and Parmesan creates the perfect gooey, rich topping that turns a simple meal into something special. It's the ultimate comfort food to enjoy after a long day.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Tuna Mornay lies in its simple ingredients. With just a few key items, you can create a rich, cheesy casserole that's guaranteed to please.

Tuna: Canned tuna in oil or brine works best for this dish. I like to use tuna in spring water, drained, for a lighter option, but the oil-packed version adds more richness to the sauce. You’ll need about two cans of tuna for a family-sized serving.
Cheese: The hero of the dish, cheese creates that gooey, comforting texture that makes this recipe so indulgent. Cheddar cheese provides the meltiness, while Parmesan adds a bit of sharpness. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or a blend if you prefer.
Milk & Cream: A mixture of milk and a bit of cream forms the base of your creamy sauce. For a lighter option, you can swap the cream for a bit of low-fat milk or half-and-half. The richness of the sauce is what makes this dish feel so comforting.
Frozen Peas: The sweet pops of peas offer a burst of color and flavor, balancing out the richness of the sauce. They cook quickly and help bulk up the casserole without adding much prep time.
Breadcrumbs: For that golden, crispy topping, a sprinkle of breadcrumbs is essential. You can use regular or panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. A little melted butter over the top before baking ensures a golden, bubbly finish.

There’s no special equipment required for this recipe, though a good oven-safe baking dish will ensure even cooking. A large saucepan and a mixing bowl will also be helpful for prepping the casserole.

How To Make This Cheesy Tuna Mornay

Making Tuna Mornay is easier than you think, and once you try it, you'll find yourself making it on repeat. Here's how to make this creamy dish from start to finish.

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to heat while you prepare the casserole.
Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook your choice of pasta – macaroni, penne, or fusilli are great options. Cook according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste (roux). Slowly add milk, stirring constantly, to avoid lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens. Add cheese, Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add tuna and peas: Stir in the drained tuna and frozen peas. Mix everything together until well combined, then fold in the cooked pasta. You can add extra seasoning like garlic powder or onion powder for added depth of flavor.
Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the tuna mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with a generous layer of breadcrumbs, and drizzle with a little melted butter for extra crispiness.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling. The aroma will drive you wild, and you’ll know it’s ready when you see that beautiful golden crust.

In just 30 minutes, you'll have a bubbling, cheesy dish that will make your family’s taste buds sing. Serve hot, and watch everyone dig in.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! Tuna Mornay stores well and makes for excellent meal prep.

Refrigeration: After the casserole has cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This is a great make-ahead option for busy days or lunches.
Freezing: If you want to freeze your Tuna Mornay, simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil before freezing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes, or until hot all the way through.
Reheating: To reheat, simply cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until hot. You can also microwave individual portions, though the oven will preserve the crisp topping.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Tuna Mornay is how versatile it is. Feel free to get creative with the ingredients and make it your own.

Vegetarian Option: Swap the tuna for cooked chickpeas or a mix of sautéed mushrooms for a meat-free version that still packs plenty of flavor. You could also add roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or spinach for a boost of nutrients.
Make it Spicy: For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the sauce. You can also stir in some chopped jalapeños or a spoonful of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Switch Up the Cheese: While cheddar and Parmesan are classic choices, feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gruyère or Swiss cheese will give the dish a more nutty flavor, while mozzarella will melt into a stretchy, gooey delight.
Add More Protein: If you’re looking for extra protein, try adding some cooked chicken or ham to the mix. It will still maintain that comforting creamy base but with a new twist.

No matter how you customize it, this Cheesy Tuna Mornay is a dish that's easy to adapt to your family’s tastes. Get creative, and enjoy the comforting flavors!