If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that you can whip up with pantry staples, this canned tuna and rice bake is the perfect solution. It’s a comforting dish that combines creamy rice, savory tuna, and gooey mozzarella cheese, all baked to perfection. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need to put together something delicious without much effort.
Ingredients
- 210g (1 cup) Jasmine rice
- 1 can of Tuna (drained)
- 1 sweet onion (finely chopped)
- 2 eggs
- 120ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 100g (3.5 oz) Mozzarella Cheese (grated)
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg
- Parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Bake at 190°C / 380°F for 15 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
- Cook the rice: Start by cooking 210g (1 cup) of Jasmine rice according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves bringing 2 cups of water to a boil, adding the rice, reducing the heat to low, and covering the pot. Let the rice simmer for about 15 minutes until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Tuna Mixture
- Sauté the onion: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped sweet onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
- Add the tuna: Once the onion is softened, add the drained can of tuna to the skillet. Stir well to combine the tuna with the onion, breaking up any large chunks of tuna.
- Season the mixture: Season the tuna mixture with salt, black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Assemble the Bake
- Mix the cream and eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 eggs and 120ml (1/2 cup) of heavy cream until fully combined. This mixture will help bind the ingredients and add a rich, creamy texture to the bake.
- Combine rice and tuna: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice with the tuna-onion mixture. Pour the egg and cream mixture over the rice and tuna, and stir until everything is well coated.
- Add the cheese: Fold in 100g (3.5 oz) of grated Mozzarella Cheese into the mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Bake the Dish
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 190°C / 380°F.
- Butter the baking dish: Grease a medium-sized baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking.
- Transfer the mixture: Pour the rice and tuna mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with more cheese (optional): For extra cheesy goodness, you can sprinkle a little more Mozzarella on top before baking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve: Serve warm and enjoy this delicious, comforting meal!
Tips for Success
- Use quality tuna: Opt for high-quality canned tuna packed in water or oil for the best flavor. Tuna in olive oil adds extra richness to the dish.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add some diced bell peppers, peas, or spinach to the dish for extra nutrition and color.
- Herbs and spices: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or dill, or add a dash of garlic powder for additional flavor.
Variations
- Tuna and Rice Casserole: If you have a little more time, you can turn this dish into a casserole by adding a layer of breadcrumbs on top before baking. Mix the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter and sprinkle them over the dish for a crispy, golden topping.
- Cheesy Tuna Rice Bake: Add more cheese to the top of the dish before baking for a gooey, cheesy finish. You can also mix in a different type of cheese like cheddar or Parmesan for a sharper flavor.
- Spicy Tuna Rice Bake: Add a chopped chili or a dash of hot sauce to the tuna mixture for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of rice? Yes, you can use any type of rice you prefer, such as long-grain, basmati, or even brown rice. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I freeze this dish? Yes, this dish freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. What can I serve with this dish? This dish is quite hearty on its own, but it pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
5. Can I use a different protein? Absolutely! You can replace the tuna with canned salmon, cooked chicken, or even leftover roast beef for a different flavor.
This canned tuna and rice bake is a simple, delicious, and budget-friendly dish that you can prepare in no time. The combination of tender rice, savory tuna, creamy eggs, and melty cheese is pure comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to satisfy the whole family, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to let me know in the comments how much you loved it!
