Tuna Orleans
A comforting tuna casserole with rice, vegetables, and savory seasonings, baked to perfection. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a quart casserole dish.
- Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a small amount of cream cheese or sour cream to the mixture. If you don't have green pepper, you can substitute with chopped bell pepper or even diced tomatoes for added moisture. Fresh herbs like dill or basil can also enhance the flavor. This dish can be made in advance and frozen, similar to Bette'S Chicken With Rice, allowing for easy meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tuna Orleans with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or cornbread. For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional parsley on top before serving. This dish complements other American recipes wonderfully and is perfect for family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on a medium setting for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Orleans contains roughly 599 calories, with 30g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (101% of the Daily Value), protein (60% of the Daily Value), and potassium (40% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1164mg 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 fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna, but you'll need to cook it first. Poach or grill the tuna until cooked through, then flake it before adding it to the mix. Adjust the seasoning as fresh tuna might have a different flavor profile compared to canned.
What can I substitute for rice?
If you're looking for a substitute for rice, consider using quinoa or couscous for a different texture and flavor. Both options cook quickly and will absorb the casserole's flavors well, making them excellent alternatives.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, Tuna Orleans can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and freeze. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. If freezing leftovers, cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
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).