Tuna Pasta Bake | Easy and Cheesy Dinner Favorite

Jump to Recipe

Easy tuna pasta bake with creamy cottage cheese sauce, cheddar, and crispy breadcrumbs—perfect comfort food for the whole family in 25 mins!

There’s something about a bubbling, golden-topped pasta dish that just feels like home. This Tuna Pasta Bake is a creamy, cheesy, comforting classic that’s stood the test of time—and for good reason. Whether you grew up with tuna casseroles or are just discovering the magic of mixing canned tuna with pasta and cheese, this easy tuna pasta bake recipe is a must-try. Made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, it’s a great way to get dinner on the table fast without sacrificing flavor.

This cheesy tuna pasta bake is especially ideal for busy weeknights when you want a nutritious, family-friendly meal with minimal effort. It’s packed with protein from the canned tuna, a creamy cottage cheese base, and finished with a layer of golden brown breadcrumbs. The creamy sauce is blended smooth for that rich texture, and the whole dish bakes up in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s an absolute classic that even picky eaters love. Let’s dive into why this dish is such a big hit for the whole family!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, this is one of those simple recipes you’ll come back to again and again.
Budget-Friendly: It’s a great way to use pantry staples like canned tuna, pasta, and cheddar cheese.
Nutritious & Filling: With protein from the drained tuna and cottage cheese, and whole grains from your choice of pasta, this is a balanced dinner option.
Family Favorite: Even kids enjoy this creamy, cheesy, comforting dish. It’s the kind of meal that disappears fast.
Flexible: Swap in penne pasta, rice pasta, or even add veggies like peas or spinach to make it your own.

A Breakdown of the Ingredients

12 oz Pasta (Ziti or Penne): Cook until al dente for the best texture in your tuna bake.
2 Cans Tuna in Water: Drained tuna is mild and tender, adding satisfying protein without overpowering the flavor.
1½ Cups Cheddar Cheese: For that classic cheesy flavor and melty goodness—grated cheese works best.
1 Cup Whole Milk: Helps create a smooth creamy sauce when blended with the cottage cheese and cheese.
2 Cups Low-Fat Cottage Cheese: The secret to a light but creamy base—blended for a smooth finish.
1 Cup Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle over the top for that golden brown, crisp texture.
1 Tbsp Garlic Powder + 1 Tsp Onion Powder: Adds depth and flavor without overpowering.
Salt & Black Pepper: A pinch of salt and a good dash of black pepper balances the richness.
Chopped Parsley (Optional): Adds a pop of color and freshness just before serving.

How to Make the Recipe

Heat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch large baking dish.
Bring a large pan of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, milk, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Blend until smooth to create a velvety creamy sauce.
Fold in the drained tuna gently, being careful not to break it up too much.

tuna, cottage cheese sauce, and noodles ready to be combined for tuna pasta bake

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the creamy tuna sauce until evenly coated.
Transfer to the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the surface.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Garnish with parsley, and serve warm.

Tuna Pasta Bake made with cheese and cottage cheese

How to Store the Recipe

Refrigerate: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the full dish in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Freeze: This tuna bake freezes well! Wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Meal Prep Tip: Portion into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Freshly Grated Cheese: It melts better and avoids clumping compared to pre-shredded varieties.
Customize It: Add frozen peas, corn, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Try Different Pastas: This great recipe works well with rice pasta or whole-wheat varieties.
Low Heat Blending: If using a food processor, pulse on low heat settings to avoid over-processing the cheese.
Boost Flavor: A dash of hot sauce or Dijon mustard in the sauce adds extra zing.

This creamy tuna pasta bake recipe is the perfect combination of easy prep, nutritious ingredients, and classic comfort food vibes. Whether you need a quick family dinner or a meal-prep option for the week, this easy tuna pasta bake recipe is a reliable go-to. It’s made from pantry items, packed with protein, and baked to golden brown perfection.

Grab your large pan, blend up that creamy sauce, and get ready to enjoy a great way to bring everyone around the table. Pin this recipe for later—it’s a guaranteed repeat!

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish ahead of time, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to eat, just heat oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

Is this a healthy tuna pasta bake?

Yes! This healthy tuna pasta bake uses low-fat cottage cheese instead of heavy cream and has plenty of protein from canned tuna. Pair it with a salad for a balanced meal.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Absolutely. Swap the pasta and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives like rice pasta and GF panko.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar cheese is classic, but you can mix in mozzarella or a sprinkle of Parmesan for a twist.

What can I serve with tuna pasta bake?

It’s a full meal on its own, but it pairs well with steamed veggies, a crisp side salad, or garlic bread.

Where can I find the printable recipe card?

Scroll to the bottom of the post for the printable recipe card with exact measurements and steps.

More Low-Prep Main Dishes

bbq chicken thighs cooked in the air fryer — Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs

vegan chickpea curry made with coconut milk — Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs