Cheesy Tuna 'N Rice Muffinlettes
Cheesy Tuna 'N Rice Muffinlettes are savory, portable snacks combining cooked rice, tuna, cheese, and olives for a flavorful bite. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack, they appeal to seafood lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike, offering a satisfying mix of textures and tastes in each muffin.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked rice, shredded Cheddar cheese, drained and flaked tuna, sliced olives, chopped onion, parsley flakes, and Season-All salt in a mixing bowl.
- Stir in beaten eggs and milk, mixing thoroughly until well combined.
- Spray 6 muffin cups with cooking spray or Pam.
- Divide the rice mixture evenly among the muffin cups.
- Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Loosen the muffins with a spatula and arrange on a serving plate.
- Serve with Tangy Butter Sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or substituting the black olives with sun-dried tomatoes. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in a bit of cream cheese with the other ingredients. Ensure the rice is cooled completely before mixing to prevent the eggs from cooking prematurely. You can also use brown rice for a nuttier flavor in this cheesy dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cheesy Tuna 'N Rice Muffinlettes warm, drizzled with Tangy Butter Sauce. They pair beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a light meal. Consider serving alongside a creamy soup or a side of Main Meal Hominy Salad for a complete dinner. These muffinlettes also make a great appetizer for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. For a crispier texture, reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. These muffinlettes can also be frozen; just thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Tuna 'N Rice Muffinlettes contains roughly 318 calories, with 15g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. At about 318 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese is suggested, you can substitute it with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a dairy-free cheese if needed. Each option will lend a different flavor profile, so feel free to experiment based on your taste preferences.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no flour. Just ensure that all ingredients, such as the Season-All salt and any cooking spray used, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the tuna and replace it with additional vegetables, like chopped spinach or artichokes. You might also consider adding chickpeas for protein. This will keep the muffinlettes hearty and flavorful while appealing to vegetarian diets.
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).