Nautilus Tuna Rice Casserole
A creamy tuna rice casserole with melted cheeses and green chilies, offering comforting flavors perfect for quick family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine drained Nautilus tuna salad, cooked rice, shredded Cheddar cheese, shredded Mozzarella cheese, and diced green chilies.
- Blend the skim milk and egg whites together in a separate bowl.
- Gently fold the milk and egg whites mixture into the tuna and rice mixture.
- Transfer all ingredients to a lightly coated 1-quart casserole dish with nonstick vegetable spray.
- Bake at 350°F until set, approximately 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out dry.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more cheese or mixing in a dollop of sour cream. If you want to lighten it further, substitute the cheese with nutritional yeast. You can also use any canned tuna or salmon if Nautilus tuna salad isn't available. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or switch the green chilies with diced chipotle peppers.
Serving Suggestions
This Nautilus Tuna Rice Casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. For a seafood-themed dinner, consider following it up with a light dessert or browsing more American recipes to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, making sure to cover it with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nautilus Tuna Rice Casserole contains roughly 973 calories, with 56g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (113% of the Daily Value), calcium (96% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2262mg per serving (98% 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 brown rice instead of white rice in this casserole?
Yes, you can definitely use brown rice as a substitute for white rice. Just keep in mind that brown rice may require a longer cooking time, so ensure it's fully cooked before mixing it into the casserole. This will add a nutty flavor and additional nutrients to the dish.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
To make this casserole vegetarian, you can replace the tuna with a mix of canned chickpeas or white beans for protein. Additionally, use plant-based cheeses and consider adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to enhance flavor and texture.
Can I freeze this casserole for later?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.
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).