Charlie The Tuna In A Blanket
Charlie The Tuna In A Blanket combines flaky tuna salad with melted cheese inside soft buns, creating a savory, satisfying dish perfect for casual gatherings or quick lunches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cubed American cheese, chopped eggs, flaked tuna, chopped onion, chopped olives, chopped sweet pickles, and mayonnaise in a bowl.
- Mix lightly until ingredients are well combined.
- Split the wiener buns and fill each with the tuna mixture.
- Wrap each filled bun in foil.
- Heat in a slow oven at 250°F for about 30 minutes or until the filling is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the filling. You can also substitute canned salmon or shredded chicken for the tuna if preferred. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the flavor. If you want a crunch, try adding chopped celery or bell peppers. Serve these alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
These tuna-filled buns are perfect as a hearty snack or a casual meal. Serve them with a side of chips or a light coleslaw for a delightful contrast. They also pair beautifully with classic American recipes like baked beans. For a fun twist, try serving them with a tangy dipping sauce or a fresh green salad on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, unwrap the foil and place the buns in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melty again. Alternatively, microwave them for 1-2 minutes, though the oven method preserves the texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Charlie The Tuna In A Blanket contains roughly 339 calories, with 16g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 648mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the tuna mixture and fill the buns a day ahead. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you're ready to heat them. This makes them a great option for parties or gatherings.
What can I use instead of American cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, cheddar or mozzarella work well as substitutes. Using a sharp cheese can add a nice flavor contrast, while mozzarella will give you that melty texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free hot dog buns to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals. The filling remains the same, maintaining all the delicious flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).