Tuna-Olive Macaroni Loaf
A savory macaroni loaf packed with tuna, olives, and cheese sauce, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering bold flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat eggs slightly; add sliced green olives, grated onion, tuna, and bread crumbs. Combine with cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and melted oleo.
- Line the bottom of a pan with aluminum foil.
- Turn the mixture into the prepared pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 50 to 60 minutes.
- Serve hot or cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the cheese sauce. If you prefer a different flavor, swap the green olives for black olives or even capers. You can also use canned chicken instead of tuna for variation. Make sure to drain the tuna well for the best consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This Tuna-Olive Macaroni Loaf is delicious served hot or cold. Pair it with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also makes a great picnic dish. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving it alongside a tangy dressing or a dollop of sour cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. For a crispy top, you can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna-Olive Macaroni Loaf contains roughly 801 calories, with 25g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (51% of the Daily Value), iron (26% of the Daily Value), and calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1274mg per serving (55% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be prepared a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover the pan, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
What can I use instead of cheese sauce?
If you don't have cheese sauce, you can use a combination of shredded cheese and a little milk or cream. Melt the cheese with the milk to create a makeshift cheese sauce. Alternatively, a homemade white sauce with cheese added can work well too.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the tuna with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a vegetarian version. Adding some chopped spinach or bell peppers will also enhance the flavor and nutrition while keeping it delicious and satisfying.
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).