Hot Tuna 'N Toast

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

A creamy tuna and pea casserole with a rich, cheesy sauce served over buttery toast, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner loved by families and seafood enthusiasts.

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Ingredients

  • 2 (6 1/2 oz.) cans tuna, drained
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 can small green peas, drained
  • salt

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a saucepan.
  2. Stir in the flour until smooth.
  3. Gradually add milk, stirring until blended.
  4. Cook over low heat, stirring until thickened.
  5. Add drained green peas, drained tuna, salt, and pepper.
  6. Stir gently until all ingredients are well mixed.
  7. Serve the tuna mixture over hot buttered toast.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the sauce. If you're out of butter, olive oil can be a good substitute. You can also use frozen peas instead of canned; just thaw them before adding. If you prefer a bit of spice, try incorporating some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to elevate the flavor. This dish is a comforting option among American recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hot tuna mixture over freshly toasted bread for a satisfying meal. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some pickled vegetables for added freshness. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside roasted potatoes or a side of French fries to complement the flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore the creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving too long to prevent drying out the tuna mixture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Hot Tuna 'N Toast contains roughly 1504 calories, with 20g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 114g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (49% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 991mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).

1504 kcal 75% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 19.7g 39% DV
Total Fat 113.9g 100% DV
Carbs 99.8g 36% DV
Fiber 1.5g 5% DV
Sugar 55.8g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 991.4mg 43% DV
Potassium 436.4mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 325.2mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 238.2mcg 26% DV
Vitamin C 19.9mg 22% DV
Vitamin D 2.6mcg 13% DV
Calcium 506.1mg 39% DV
Iron 8.9mg 49% DV
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten Fish

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 tuna instead of canned?

Yes, fresh tuna can be used for this recipe. Just cook it thoroughly before adding it to the sauce. You'll want to ensure it's flaky and fully cooked to blend well with the other ingredients.

What type of bread works best for this dish?

A thick, hearty bread like sourdough or whole grain works best for soaking up the tuna mixture. However, you can also use white bread or a baguette if you prefer a lighter option.

How can I make this dish healthier?

For a healthier version, consider using whole wheat flour instead of regular flour and a lower-fat milk option. You can also add more vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or spinach, to increase the nutritional value.

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).

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