Hearty Tuna and Potato Gratin with Cheesy Golden Crust

This Tuna and Potato Gratin is a deliciously comforting dish that combines tender potatoes, flavorful tuna, and a golden, cheesy crust. It’s an affordable, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners and sure to become a new family favorite.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients:

• 4-5 potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 175ml (3/4 cup) milk
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 onion, finely sliced
• Olive oil
• 100g (3.5 oz) cheese, grated (cheddar or your preferred type)
• 2 cans of tuna, drained
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste or 4 tablespoons tomato sauce

Instructions:

Prepare the Potatoes:

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (400°F).
2. In a saucepan, combine the sliced potatoes, milk, and butter. Season with salt and black pepper.
3. Cook over medium heat until the potatoes are just tender but not fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Stir gently to avoid breaking the slices.

Prepare the Tuna Mixture:

1. While the potatoes are cooking, heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté the sliced onion until it becomes translucent and slightly golden.
3. Add the drained tuna and tomato paste or sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Gratin:

1. Grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil or butter.
2. Layer half of the potatoes at the bottom of the dish.
3. Spread the tuna mixture evenly over the potatoes.
4. Top with the remaining potatoes.
5. Sprinkle the grated cheese over the top layer of potatoes.

Bake:

1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake until the cheese is melted and golden, about 5 minutes. If you prefer a more golden top, you can broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Serve:

1. Remove the gratin from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly, making it easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve hot with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.
• Pair with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a complete meal.

Cooking Tips:

• For added flavor, you can mix some garlic powder or paprika into the milk when cooking the potatoes.
• Consider adding a layer of cooked vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers between the potato and tuna layers for a more nutritious dish.
• If you prefer a creamier gratin, mix a small amount of cream with the milk.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Potatoes: A good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber.
• Tuna: High in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart health and muscle repair.
• Cheese: Provides calcium and protein, contributing to bone health.

Dietary Information:

• High-Protein: This dish is high in protein from the tuna and cheese.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free for a suitable meal.
• Affordable: Uses budget-friendly ingredients to create a hearty meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Comforting: Perfect for a cozy dinner, with layers of creamy potatoes and savory tuna.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and ingredients make this dish accessible for any cook.
• Versatile: Can be customized with different vegetables and seasonings to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Enjoy this Hearty Tuna and Potato Gratin with Cheesy Golden Crust, a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this gratin is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Serve hot and savor the delightful combination of tender potatoes, flavorful tuna, and melted cheese.