Tuna Almondine
A comforting tuna casserole topped with melted Cheddar, featuring potatoes, celery, and a hint of lemon, perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scrub or peel the potatoes, then slice them lengthwise and place in a 1 1/2-quart baking dish.
- Dot the sliced potatoes with butter and season with pepper to taste.
- Microwave uncovered on high for 4 minutes.
- In a 2-quart pan, combine evaporated milk, flour, lemon juice, chopped celery, tuna, shredded Cheddar cheese, and dried onion flakes.
- Heat the mixture until the cheese has melted, stirring occasionally.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the cooked potatoes.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of chicken broth or using half-and-half instead of evaporated milk. If you're short on time, pre-cooked or microwaveable potatoes can be substituted for fresh ones. Dried onion flakes can be replaced with fresh onions, but sauté them first for improved flavor. This dish can also be enhanced with a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Tuna Almondine is best served warm, straight from the oven. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside crusty bread or over rice. This dish can also be a delightful addition to a potluck or family gathering, complementing other seafood recipes on the table.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and warm in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until warmed, ensuring it retains its creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Almondine contains roughly 1141 calories, with 41g protein, 179g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (81% of the Daily Value), iron (70% of the Daily Value), and calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 691mg per serving (30% 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 tuna instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna if you prefer. Just cook it thoroughly and flake it before adding it to the mixture. This will give the dish a fresher taste, but ensure you adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you want to change the flavor profile, you can substitute Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a sharp Swiss cheese. Each will offer a unique taste and texture to the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, Tuna Almondine can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).