Tuna Fish Scallop
A comforting baked tuna casserole topped with cheese and breadcrumbs, featuring rich flavors of tuna, eggs, and creamy sauce, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange drained tuna fish and sliced hard-boiled eggs in a 6 x 8-inch shallow baking dish.
- Melt margarine in a saucepan; blend in flour and seasonings (salt, pepper, celery salt).
- Gradually add milk and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Pour the sauce over the tuna and egg mixture in the baking dish.
- Top with grated cheese and soft bread crumbs.
- Sprinkle with paprika.
- Bake in a hot oven at 400°F for 20 minutes or until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute margarine with olive oil. You can also add sautéed onions or bell peppers for extra flavor. If you’re in a hurry, use pre-cooked hard-boiled eggs or skip the browning step by using a broiler for the last minute of baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tuna Fish Scallop with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Lobster (Langostino) Rolls for a seafood-themed dinner. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or rice, which will absorb the creamy sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals, but the topping may not stay crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Fish Scallop contains roughly 582 calories, with 20g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value), iron (42% of the Daily Value), and protein (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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, but it requires cooking beforehand. Grill or poach fresh tuna and flake it before layering in the baking dish. This will give the dish a fresher taste and different texture compared to canned tuna.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Tuna Fish Scallop gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening the sauce. Ensure your bread crumbs are gluten-free as well. This way, you can enjoy this delicious dish without the gluten.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for its sharp flavor and great melting properties. However, you can also use a combination of cheeses like mozzarella for creaminess and Parmesan for added depth. Experiment with your favorites to find the perfect blend.
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).