Tuna Cheese Souffle
A savory tuna and cheese souffle with a flaky pie crust, enriched with onions and tarragon, perfect for a comforting family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Press the pie shell into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Combine the drained and flaked tuna with the finely chopped onions and spread in the bottom of the pie shell.
- In a bowl, stir the condensed Cheddar cheese soup until smooth.
- Gradually blend in flour until well incorporated.
- Add the eggs, milk, crushed tarragon, and pepper; mix well.
- Pour the mixture over the tuna layer in the pie shell.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat Cheddar cheese soup or Greek yogurt instead of some of the milk. You can also enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of garlic powder or using fresh herbs like parsley or dill in place of tarragon. Ensure the pie crust is fully pressed into the dish to avoid leaks during baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Tuna Cheese Souffle pairs beautifully with a Green 'Make Ahead' Salad for a balanced meal. Serve it warm directly from the oven, and consider adding a splash of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream on top for extra flavor. It’s ideal for brunch or as a light dinner option, alongside crusty bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This ensures the souffle retains its texture without drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Cheese Souffle contains roughly 454 calories, with 30g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (96% of the Daily Value), iron (67% of the Daily Value), and protein (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 cooked tuna. Just ensure it's flaked and seasoned well before adding it to the dish. Fresh tuna will provide a firmer texture and a richer flavor, making for a delicious variation of this recipe.
Can I freeze the Tuna Cheese Souffle?
Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the souffle. However, if you must, bake it first, then cool completely before wrapping tightly. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.
What can I substitute for the pie shell?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, consider using a cauliflower crust or a whole wheat pie crust. Alternatively, you can make a crustless version by greasing the casserole dish and pouring the mixture directly in, which will still yield a delicious souffle.
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).