What is Tuna Mornay?
Tuna Mornay is a comforting, creamy tuna casserole topped with golden cheese and often enjoyed as a weeknight staple in Australia. It’s one of those dishes that wraps you in a warm food hug and leaves you with no regrets—just satisfaction.
Why Aussies Love Tuna Mornay
It’s budget-friendly, fast, and filling. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies and use pantry staples like canned tuna and pasta. Many Australians grew up with this dish on the dinner table, so it’s as nostalgic as it is tasty.
A Family Dinner Staple
Tuna Mornay is the kind of dish grandma made, mum perfected, and now it’s your turn to make it your own. Best of all, picky eaters usually say yes to this creamy, cheesy classic.
Ingredients Needed
Main Ingredients
- 425g can of tuna in spring water (drained)
- 300g cooked pasta (elbow macaroni, penne, or spirals)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons plain flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ons
- ½ cup frozen peas or corn
- 1 diced carrot (pre-cooked)
- 1 tsp mustard (for a flavor boost)
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Best Tuna Choices
Canned tuna in spring water or brine works best. If you’re going for gourmet, try tuna in olive oil—but drain well to avoid a greasy texture.
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Step-by-Step Tuna Mornay Recipe
Step 1 – Preparing the Ingredients
Start by boiling your pasta until al dente. While that’s happening, finely chop your onion, drain the tuna, and preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 2 – Making the Creamy Mornay Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir constantly to make a roux—this should look like a thick paste. Gradually add the milk, whisking to avoid lumps. Once thickened, stir in the cheese, onion, salt, and pepper.
Step 3 – Combining Tuna and Pasta
Add your cooked pasta and drained tuna to the sauce. Mix until well coated. If you’re adding veggies like peas or corn, now’s the time.
Step 4 – Baking It to Perfection
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with extra cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Tips and Tricks
How to Prevent a Lumpy Sauce
Always add milk gradually while whisking constantly. If it goes lumpy, don’t panic—just blend it!
Adding Extra Flavor
A spoonful of Dijon mustard or a pinch of nutmeg adds an extra dimension to the sauce.
Making it Extra Creamy
Use a mix of full-cream milk and a dash of cream for ultra-rich results.
Variations of Tuna Mornay
Tuna Mornay with Rice Instead of Pasta
Want to switch it up? Use cooked rice instead of pasta—it’s just as delicious and gluten-free friendly.
Low-Carb/Keto Version
Swap pasta for steamed cauliflower or zucchini noodles, and use almond flour in your roux.
Tuna Mornay Without Cheese
Yes, it’s possible! Replace cheese with nutritional yeast and add extra herbs for flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Best Side Dishes
Serve with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Presentation Tips
Sprinkle some paprika or breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crisp finish.
Kid-Friendly Plating Ideas
Use fun-shaped pasta and top with a little smiley face made from sliced olives and carrot strips!
Storing and Reheating
Can You Freeze Tuna Mornay?
Absolutely. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost before reheating.
How to Reheat Without Drying Out
Cover with foil and bake at 160°C (320°F) until heated through. Add a splash of milk if it’s looking dry.
Nutritional Info
Calorie Breakdown
One serving (about 1½ cups) is roughly 400–500 calories, depending on ingredients.
Protein and Carbs
High in protein from tuna and cheese. Expect around 20–30g of protein per serve.
Healthier Substitutes
- Use low-fat cheese and skim milk
- Whole wheat pasta instead of white
- Add more veggies, reduce cheese
Tuna Mornay is more than just a dish—it’s a memory-maker, a budget-saver, and a go-to for comforting family dinners. Whether you’re keeping it classic or customizing it to suit your lifestyle, this recipe is one you’ll come back to time and again. So grab that can of tuna, roll up your sleeves, and get cookin’!
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, but make sure it’s cooked and flaked before adding to the sauce.
2. How long does the Tuna Mornay recipe last in the fridge?
It lasts 3–4 days in an airtight container.
3. What can I use as a substitute for cheese?
Nutritional yeast or vegan cheese works well.
4. Is the tuna mornay recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a GF version.
5. Can I make Tuna Mornay in advance?
Absolutely. Prep it a day before and bake when ready to eat.