Are you craving a comforting, delicious, and healthy meal that's ready in under an hour? Look no further! This tuna and rice bake is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, packed with flavor and surprisingly easy to make. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a family dinner or a simple yet satisfying meal for one. Get ready to experience the joy of a quick and easy dinner, without compromising on taste or nutrition!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 (5 ounce) cans tuna in water, drained
- 1 (10 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This simple step ensures your delicious tuna and rice bake won't stick.
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base for your entire dish.
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Combine ingredients: Add the rice and vegetable broth to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Stir in the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, peas, and corn. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
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Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the mixture is heated through. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the dish to set slightly.
Tips for the Best Tuna and Rice Bake:
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of dried oregano or thyme to the rice mixture. Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect blend.
- Creamier bake: Use a combination of cream of mushroom soup and milk or cream for a richer texture.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the tuna with chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian version.
Variations:
- Mexican Tuna Rice Bake: Add diced bell peppers, black beans, corn, and a packet of taco seasoning. Top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
- Mediterranean Tuna Rice Bake: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. A drizzle of olive oil after baking adds a delightful finishing touch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This tuna and rice bake is a perfect example of delicious and easy recipes that are also healthy meals. It’s a fantastic quick dinner idea, ideal for busy weeknights. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish! It’s one of the best recipes you can easily prepare and customize to your taste. You'll surely enjoy this simple homemade cooking recipe.