Tuna pasta bake

Method

1. Pre-heat oven to 180C/350F/gas 4. Grease a baking or Pyrex dish with a little butter.
2. Cook the pasta in boiling water according to packet instructions.
3. Meanwhile, make the sauce by melting the butter in a tall saucepan. Remove from heat and stir in the flour. Place back on the stove and cook for 1 minute, taking care not to burn the mixture. Gradually whisk or stir in the milk and cook till the sauce thickens, for around 7-8 minutes. Stir constantly, or the sauce will stick or turn lumpy. When smooth and thickened, remove from heat and add most of cheese, reserving a good handful for the topping.
4. Drain the pasta and run it under cold water to avoid it cooking further. In a bowl, mix the pasta with the white sauce, passata, herbs, tuna, sweetcorn and parsley. Top with the reserved grated cheese.
5. Bake for 30 minutes or until the cheese on top is golden.

Hints and tips

1. The pasta bake will be extremely hot on removing from the oven. Cool thoroughly before serving to a child.
2. Serve with a green salad for adults, or chopped cucumber, peppers and cherry tomatoes for babies and toddlers. Always supervise children closely while eating salad, in case of choking.

Age suitability

11 months

Meal Type

Lunch

Preparation time

Under 20 minutes