This Tuna and Mozzarella Tortilla Bake is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish, perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying snack. With layers of tortillas, a delicious tuna filling, mozzarella cheese, and fresh vegetables, it’s a hearty and comforting meal that comes together in no time. Whether you’re craving something light or hearty, this dish will definitely hit the spot.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Cuisine This dish draws inspiration from Mediterranean flavors, with tuna, provencal herbs, and fresh mozzarella. The use of tortillas as a base gives it a Tex-Mex flair, making it a fusion of Mediterranean and Mexican cuisines.
Full List of Ingredients
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For the Tuna Filling:
- 4 eggs
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Provencal herbs, to taste
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 celery stalk, thinly sliced
- 1 can of tuna
- Vegetable oil, for cooking
- 60g (2 oz) mozzarella for pizza, grated
- Cherry tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh mozzarella mini, for topping
- Mayonnaise, for topping
- 2 tortillas
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For Baking and Garnishing:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon Provencal herbs
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- Crack 4 eggs into a bowl. Add salt, pepper, and provencal herbs to taste. Beat the eggs thoroughly until well mixed.
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Cook the Onion and Celery:
- Slice the onion and celery stalk thinly. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the celery and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
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Add the Tuna:
- Open the can of tuna, drain the liquid, and mash the tuna with a fork. Add the mashed tuna to the skillet with the onions and celery.
- Stir the mixture and cook for another 3 minutes to combine the flavors.
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Assemble the Tortilla Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Grease a baking dish with a little vegetable oil. Place one tortilla in the dish and spread the tuna mixture evenly over the top.
- Grate 60g of mozzarella and sprinkle half of it on top of the tuna. Add some sliced cherry tomatoes and fresh mini mozzarella for extra flavor.
- Place the second tortilla on top of the filling. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise over the tortilla and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella.
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Bake the Tortilla Bake:
- Sprinkle provencal herbs on top of the tortillas and place the dish in the oven.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Cholesterol: 135 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe This Tuna and Mozzarella Tortilla Bake is a modern fusion dish, combining Mediterranean flavors with a Tex-Mex style base. The tuna, a classic Mediterranean ingredient, pairs wonderfully with provencal herbs, which bring an aromatic quality to the dish. The use of tortillas and cheese adds a comforting, cheesy texture, making it a popular choice for a quick and hearty meal.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish is easy to make with minimal ingredients and a short prep time.
- Deliciously Hearty: The combination of tuna, mozzarella, and a crispy tortilla topping makes for a satisfying meal.
- Customizable: You can adjust the filling to your liking, adding more vegetables, cheese, or even spices to suit your taste.
Health Benefits
- High in Protein: The tuna and eggs provide a good amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: The olive oil and mozzarella offer healthy fats that are good for heart health.
- Packed with Vitamins: The onions, celery, and tomatoes contribute vitamins A and C, which support immunity and skin health.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Serve this tortilla bake with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- With a Dip: Pair with a creamy dip like tzatziki or guacamole for extra flavor.
- As a Light Lunch: It’s perfect as a light lunch when paired with some fresh vegetables on the side.
Cooking Tips
- Use a Non-Stick Pan: To avoid sticking, use a non-stick pan when sautéing the onions, celery, and tuna mixture.
- Customize the Filling: You can add additional vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to make the filling even more nutritious.
- Don’t Overcook: Be sure not to overcook the tortilla bake to keep the tortillas crispy but not burnt.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the tuna and substitute with mushrooms, chickpeas, or lentils for a plant-based version.
- Spicy Version: Add some chopped jalapeños or chili flakes to the filling for a bit of heat.
- Meat Lover’s Version: Replace the tuna with cooked chicken or ground beef for a heartier option.
Conclusion This Tuna and Mozzarella Tortilla Bake is a fun, delicious, and quick recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its layers of cheesy goodness, savory tuna filling, and crispy tortilla, it’s a dish that will please the whole family. Whether you’re making it as a quick meal or serving it as part of a larger spread, it’s sure to be a hit!
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
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Can I use canned tuna in oil or water? You can use either canned tuna in oil or water, but tuna in water is lighter, while tuna in oil gives a richer flavor.
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Can I substitute the tortillas with something else? Yes, you can substitute tortillas with pita bread or flatbread for a slightly different texture.
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Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time, then cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
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How do I make this dish spicier? Add chopped jalapeños, chili flakes, or cayenne pepper to the filling for a spicy kick.
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Can I freeze this recipe? Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra time to the baking process.
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What other cheeses can I use? You can substitute the mozzarella with any other melty cheese, like cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack.
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Can I add more vegetables? Yes, you can add more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the filling for added nutrition.
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Can I use a different type of meat instead of tuna? Yes, you can substitute tuna with cooked chicken, ground beef, or even salmon for a different flavor.
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Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free tortillas to make this recipe gluten-free.
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What can I serve with this dish? Serve this tortilla bake with a side of salad, some fresh guacamole, or a yogurt-based dip like tzatziki for a well-rounded meal.