This 5-ingredient oven baked tuna penne is the kind of practical family casserole that saves supper on a busy night. Everything comes together right in one baking dish, and using the tuna undrained helps add flavor and moisture to the pasta as it bakes. It has that cozy, budget-friendly, pantry-meal feel so many of us grew up with, but it still comes out creamy, hearty, and satisfying enough to put on repeat.
Serve this casserole with a simple green salad, steamed green beans, or buttered peas for a balanced meal. A slice of garlic bread or warm dinner rolls goes especially well for soaking up the creamy sauce, and if you like a little brightness on the plate, a few tomato slices or a spoonful of lemony cucumber salad makes a nice fresh contrast.
5-Ingredient Oven Baked Tuna Penne
Servings: 6
Ingredients
12 ounces dry uncooked penne
2 cans tuna in water or oil, undrained, 5 ounces each
1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup, 10.5 ounces
2 1/2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
2. Add the dry penne to the prepared baking dish. Spoon the undrained tuna over the pasta, then add the condensed soup, milk, and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar.
3. Stir everything well so the pasta is evenly coated and the soup is blended into the milk. Spread the mixture into an even layer.
4. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
5. Remove the foil, stir the pasta well, and check that the penne is just about tender. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese over the top.
6. Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for 10 to 15 minutes more, until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbly. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Variations & Tips
For picky eaters: Use mild cheddar and stir the tuna very thoroughly into the sauce so it blends more smoothly throughout the pasta. That way the flavor is gentler and every bite feels creamy and familiar.
Extra flavor: If your family likes a little more seasoning, add a pinch of black pepper, onion powder, or garlic powder. Even though this is a 5-ingredient recipe, a tiny bit of seasoning can make it taste even more homemade.
Add vegetables: Stir in 1 cup of frozen peas or a cup of well-drained canned mushrooms before baking if you want to stretch the casserole a little further. This is a nice way to add color and make it a fuller one-dish meal.
Cheese swap: Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheddar blend all work nicely here. If you want a browner top, place the baked casserole under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes at the very end, watching closely.
Make-ahead tip: Assemble the casserole a few hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the covered baking time since the dish will be starting cold.