Tuna Broccoli Combo
A quick and comforting casserole combining tuna, broccoli, and pasta with a hint of dill, topped with melted cheese. This dish is perfect for a nutritious solo meal or a cozy dinner, offering a delicious blend of flavors and creamy textures that appeal to seafood lovers and comfort food fans alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the drained tuna, evaporated skim milk, cooked broccoli, cooked shells, and dill weed in a small casserole dish.
- Top the mixture with grated cheese.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using full-fat evaporated milk or a splash of heavy cream. If you want to add more flavor, try incorporating garlic powder or onion powder. For a healthier twist, substitute whole wheat pasta shells for the regular ones. You can also use fresh broccoli if you prefer, just steam it before mixing in.
Serving Suggestions
This Tuna Broccoli Combo is delicious on its own, but it pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce. For an elevated experience, consider pairing it with the flavors of Creamy Tuna Topped Broccoli.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring occasionally, until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Broccoli Combo contains roughly 517 calories, with 28g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), protein (56% of the Daily Value), and calcium (48% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1171mg per serving (51% 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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works great in this recipe! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the mixture to avoid excess water. This will ensure your casserole doesn't become watery during baking.
What can I use instead of shells for this recipe?
If you don't have pasta shells, other types of pasta such as penne or fusilli will work well. You could even use quinoa or rice for a gluten-free option. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary for the alternative you choose.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Absolutely! You can replace the tuna with chickpeas or a meat substitute like tempeh to keep the protein level high while staying vegetarian. This will also add a different texture and flavor to your casserole.
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).