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A slice of tuna rice casserole with peas and melted cheese rests on a white plate, next to a fork. The background features colorful, comic-style fabric.
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Cheesy Tuna Rice Casserole Recipe

A budget friendly rib sticking comfort food with rice, the protein from tuna, and a creamy cheesy sauce.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword canned tuna, cheddar cheese, rice, tuna casserole, tuna rice casserole
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 433kcal
Author Christina

Ingredients

  • 3 cups cooked rice white or brown, based on your preference
  • 2 cans 5 oz each tuna, drained
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or a gluten-free alternative
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar is great, but any melty cheese works
  • 1 cup frozen peas or other vegetables like broccoli or spinach

Instructions

  • If you don’t have leftover rice, cook 1 cup of uncooked rice according to package instructions to yield about 2 cups cooked.
  • Set aside.
  • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Cook the onion until transluscent.
  • Add the flour and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  • Add the milk all at once stirring constantly.
  • Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and forms a smooth, creamy sauce, about 5 minutes.
  • Stir in garlic, dill, and salt and pepper to taste.
  • Remove from heat and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil or butter over medium heat.
  • Sauté the onion until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  • Stir in the cooked rice, drained tuna, peas, and the prepared sauce.
  • Mix until everything is evenly coated.
  • Fold in ¾ cup of the shredded cheese. This step ensures the casserole is creamy and cheesy throughout.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the tuna mixture into it, spreading it evenly.
  • Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.
  • Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbling. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 433kcal | Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 59mg | Sodium: 357mg | Potassium: 232mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 846IU | Vitamin C: 17mg | Calcium: 319mg | Iron: 1mg