This Tuna Potato Casserole is a comforting, savory dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. With layers of creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed vegetables, and tuna, it’s topped with cheese and baked to perfection. Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck, this dish is quick, easy, and delicious.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 500 g (about 1 lb), peeled and diced
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Carrot: 1, grated
- Tuna: 1 can (about 150 g), drained
- Butter: 3 tablespoons (divided)
- Milk: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Eggs: 2 (1 for potato mixture, 1 for topping)
- Cheese: 100 g (1 cup), grated (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Breadcrumbs: 1/4 cup (30 g)
- Green Onion: 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Sour Cream or Cream: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: To taste
Directions
Prepare the Potatoes:
- Boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with 2 tablespoons of butter, milk, 1 egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
Prepare the Filling:
2. Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and grated carrot until soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the drained tuna to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble the Casserole:
4. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
5. Grease a baking dish with butter and sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the bottom.
6. Spread half of the mashed potatoes into the baking dish as the base layer.
7. Add the tuna and vegetable mixture as the second layer.
8. Spread the remaining mashed potatoes over the filling to cover.
Prepare the Topping:
9. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg, sour cream (or cream), and a pinch of salt. Pour this mixture evenly over the top layer of mashed potatoes.
10. Sprinkle the grated cheese and chopped green onions over the casserole.
Bake:
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Serve:
12. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Slice and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Serve with a slice of crusty bread for a hearty dinner.
Cooking Tips
- For a crispier topping, mix the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling.
- Add herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor.
- Use canned salmon or cooked chicken as an alternative to tuna.
Nutritional Benefits
- Potatoes: Provide energy-rich carbohydrates and potassium.
- Tuna: A great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Cheese: Adds calcium and creaminess.
Dietary Information
- Customizable: Can be made with dairy-free butter, milk, and cheese for a lactose-intolerant option.
- High in Protein: Thanks to tuna, eggs, and cheese.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approx.):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) or microwave until warm.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines simple ingredients into a hearty and flavorful dish.
- Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins.
- Great for meal prep or as a family-friendly dinner.
- A perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors.
Conclusion
This Tuna Potato Casserole is a comforting classic that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re serving it as a weekday dinner or at a gathering, its creamy layers and cheesy topping make it irresistible. Try this easy recipe and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal today!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes work wonderfully for a slightly sweeter flavor. - What type of tuna should I use?
Canned tuna in water or olive oil both work well. - Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Peas, corn, or spinach are great additions. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving. - What can I use instead of sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt or heavy cream are excellent substitutes. - Can I skip the breadcrumbs?
Yes, but the breadcrumbs add a nice crunch to the base. - What other cheeses can I use?
Try Parmesan, Gruyère, or a mix of your favorite melting cheeses. - Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze the baked casserole and reheat when needed. - How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?
Drain the tuna and vegetables well before assembling the casserole. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven to maintain the texture and crispness of the topping.