Budget-Friendly Tuna Potato Casserole: A Comforting Classic

As a culinary expert specializing in budget-friendly meals, I’ve perfected this tuna casserole recipe to deliver maximum flavor while keeping costs low. This hearty dish combines protein-rich tuna with creamy mashed potatoes and savory cheese for a satisfying family dinner that won’t break the bank.

Preparation Details

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6-8 portions
• Calories: 315 per serving

Ingredients

For the Potato Layer

• 5 medium potatoes (about 2 lbs/900g)
• 1½ tablespoons (25g) butter
• ¾ cup (180ml) whole milk, heated
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Tuna Mixture

• 2 cans (280g each) tuna in water, drained
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons (30g) tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup (120ml) reserved potato cooking water

For the Topping

• ¼ cup (25g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel and cut potatoes:

• Uniform 2-inch chunks
• Rinse under cold water

1. Cook potatoes:

• Place in large pot
• Cover with cold salted water
• Bring to boil
• Reduce to simmer
• Cook 15-20 minutes until tender

1. Reserve ½ cup cooking water before draining
2. Create mash:

• Return potatoes to pot
• Add butter
• Mash until smooth
• Gradually add hot milk
• Season with salt and pepper
• Mix until creamy

2. Prepare Tuna Filling

1. Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium heat
2. Cook onions:

• Add sliced onions
• Pinch of salt
• Sauté 8-10 minutes until golden

1. Create sauce:

• Add tomato paste
• Cook 1 minute
• Add reserved potato water
• Stir until smooth

1. Add tuna:

• Break into chunks
• Gently fold into sauce
• Heat through 2-3 minutes
• Season to taste

3. Assemble Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
2. Layer in 9×13 inch baking dish:

• Half the mashed potatoes
• Spread evenly
• Half the tuna mixture
• Remaining potatoes
• Remaining tuna

1. Top with:

• Grated Parmesan
• Optional fresh parsley

4. Bake to Perfection

1. Place in preheated oven
2. Bake 15-20 minutes until:

• Top is golden brown
• Edges are bubbling
• Cheese is melted

Pro Tips

• Use Yukon Gold potatoes for creamiest texture
• Drain tuna well to prevent watery casserole
• Let rest 10 minutes before serving
• Make ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours

Money-Saving Tips

1. Buy tuna in bulk when on sale
2. Use generic brand ingredients
3. Replace Parmesan with cheaper cheese options
4. Add frozen vegetables to stretch servings
5. Use powdered milk if needed

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 315
• Total Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 420mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 38g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3g
• Protein: 22g
• Vitamin D: 15% DV
• Calcium: 8% DV
• Iron: 10% DV
• Potassium: 20% DV

Serving Suggestions

1. Weeknight Dinner:

• Green salad
• Steamed vegetables
• Crusty bread

1. Lunch Options:

• Pack in thermos
• Reheat portions
• Add side salad

Storage Instructions

1. Refrigerator:

• Cover tightly
• Store up to 3 days
• Reheat in microwave or oven

1. Freezer:

• Wrap well
• Freeze up to 2 months
• Thaw overnight in refrigerator

This budget-friendly tuna casserole is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a satisfying meal. The combination of creamy potatoes and savory tuna provides essential proteins and carbohydrates, while the cheese adds calcium and flavor. It’s an excellent option for families looking to stretch their food budget without sacrificing taste or nutrition.