Looking for a quick, easy, and budget-friendly meal that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than this tuna pie! This recipe transforms the classic canned tuna into a comforting and satisfying dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck contribution.
Ingredients:
- Canned Tuna in Brine: The star of the show! Canned tuna is an affordable and convenient source of protein. Choose tuna packed in brine for added moisture and flavor. Draining the brine helps control the sodium content, but reserve some if you find the filling needs a touch more moisture.
- Potatoes: These provide the base for the pie, adding starch and body. Russet potatoes are a good choice for this recipe, but feel free to experiment with red potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness.
- Onions: Sautéed onions add savory depth and flavor to the filling.
- Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomato paste adds a rich tomato flavor and helps to bind the ingredients together.
- Milk and Butter: Create a creamy and flavorful sauce for the filling. You can substitute milk with vegetable broth for a vegan option.
- Mozzarella Cheese: A classic topping for pies, the melted mozzarella adds a cheesy goodness to the dish.
Instructions:
- Cook the Potatoes: Boiling the potatoes until tender ensures they become soft and easily incorporated into the filling.
- Sauté the Onions: Sautéing the onions until softened and translucent draws out their sweetness and adds a caramelized flavor to the pie.
- Flake the Tuna: This allows for a more even distribution of tuna throughout the filling.
- Combine the Filling: Mixing all the cooked ingredients, flaked tuna, and seasonings creates a flavorful and cohesive filling.
- Preheat and Assemble: Preheat the oven to ensure it’s hot when the pie goes in for baking. Transfer the filling to a greased baking dish and top with cheese for that irresistible golden brown crust.
- Bake and Serve: The baking time ensures the cheese melts and becomes bubbly, while the filling heats through. Let the pie cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set.
More Information:
- This recipe is a great way to use up leftover cooked potatoes or canned tuna.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the filling, such as chopped carrots, peas, or corn.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers to the filling.
- Leftover tuna pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion:
This tuna pie is a delicious and budget-conscious meal option that’s sure to please everyone at the table. It’s easy to prepare, uses pantry staples, and offers endless possibilities for customization. So next time you reach for a can of tuna, think beyond the sandwich and whip up this delightful and satisfying pie!