Hilo Tuna Casserole
A comforting tuna casserole with creamy sauce, potatoes, onions, and cheese, perfect for a hearty family meal with classic flavors that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan.
- Stir in flour, salt, and paprika until well combined.
- Gradually add milk, cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens.
- Combine the sauce with drained tuna, chopped onion, chopped celery, and sliced potatoes.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Top with grated cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also substitute the tuna with canned salmon or shredded chicken for a variation. If you prefer a little spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. To enhance flavor, sauté the onion and celery in the butter before mixing them in with the tuna and potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
This Hilo Tuna Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For added crunch, serve with a side of garlic bread. You can also top it with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving for an extra burst of flavor. Explore more American recipes for versatile meal ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but be sure to cover them to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hilo Tuna Casserole contains roughly 2286 calories, with 21g protein, 128g carbohydrates, and 191g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (93% of the Daily Value), iron (76% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1131mg per serving (49% 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 fresh fish instead of canned tuna?
Yes, you can use fresh fish, but you'll need to cook it beforehand. Poach or bake the fish until fully cooked, then flake it and incorporate it into the casserole. Adjust the cooking time as fresh fish may require less time to bake compared to the casserole's overall baking time.
What types of cheese work best for topping?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice that melts well and adds great flavor. However, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a blend for a more complex taste. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts nicely for that perfect golden topping.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make the casserole gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Additionally, ensure any canned products, like the tuna and broth, are labeled gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same comforting flavors without gluten.
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).