"Frisco" Tuna
A hearty tuna casserole with cheese, tomatoes, and onions, perfect for family dinners. Rich flavors and comforting textures make it a satisfying meal for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the medium wide noodles according to the package directions. Drain off water and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil and sauté the chopped onions until translucent.
- Combine the crushed tomatoes with puree, garlic salt, salt, pepper, and snipped parsley to make the tomato mixture.
- In a casserole dish, layer half the noodles, then half the tuna, then half the cheese slices.
- Pour half of the tomato mixture over the layered ingredients.
- Repeat the layers: remaining noodles, tuna, cheese slices, and the rest of the tomato mixture.
- Bake uncovered in a 350°F oven for 40 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of the dish, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture for a bit of heat. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute whole wheat noodles for the medium wide noodles. For a richer taste, try using a mix of cheeses, such as mozzarella and cheddar, instead of just sharp cheese slices. This dish is a great way to explore American recipes with tuna.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread to complement the flavors. For an added touch, sprinkle some extra parsley on top before serving. You can also serve it alongside a light white wine, which enhances the flavors of the tuna. For more ideas, check out recipes like Easy Tuna Noodle for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can bake it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warm, ensuring it retains its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Frisco" Tuna contains roughly 527 calories, with 21g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (202% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (128% of the Daily Value), and potassium (91% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1453mg per serving (63% 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 use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While medium wide noodles are traditional, you can easily substitute them with penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose to maintain the perfect texture.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Assemble all layers in the casserole dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding ingredients like black olives, capers, or even some diced bell peppers to the tomato mixture for an extra burst of flavor. A sprinkle of Italian seasoning or fresh basil before serving can also elevate the dish, making it even more delicious.
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).