Cheesy Gluten-Free Southwest Tuna Bake
This hearty and flavorful casserole combines the best of southwestern flavors with a healthy twist. It features tender gluten-free pasta, protein-packed tuna, and a vibrant mix of vegetables smothered in a creamy, dairy-free sauce. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prep, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The optional goat cheese adds a tangy richness that elevates the dish even further, but it's delicious without it too. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this simple, one-dish meal that packs a nutritious punch!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
canola oil
1 (tablespoon)
onion
1 (medium, chopped)
celery
1/2 (cup, chopped)
corn kernels
1 1/2 (cups)
mayonnaise
1 1/4 (cups (dairy-free))
salsa
1 (cup)
chili powder
1 (teaspoon (optional))
tuna
6 (ounces, drained)
gluten-free pasta
2 1/2 (cups (rotini, penne or fusilli))
goat cheese
1 (cup, shredded (optional))
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 2-quart casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
2
Cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the canola oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and celery, sautéing for about 3 minutes or until softened.
4
Stir in the corn and continue to cook for an additional 2 minutes, mixing well to incorporate.
5
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the mayonnaise, salsa, and chili powder (if using). Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended. If the mixture is too thick, loosen it with a few teaspoons of non-dairy milk or gluten-free chicken broth.
6
Gently fold in the drained tuna and cooked pasta until everything is well combined.
7
Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
8
If desired, sprinkle the top with shredded goat cheese for added flavor.
9
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes or until the casserole is bubbling and lightly golden on top.
10
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Southwest Tuna Bake!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is for a Cheesy Gluten-Free Southwest Tuna Bake.
Is this tuna bake gluten-free?
Yes, it uses gluten-free pasta and gluten-free chicken broth if needed to thin the sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
The base recipe is dairy-free as it uses dairy-free mayonnaise and non-dairy milk; the goat cheese topping is optional.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
What size casserole dish is required?
A 2-quart casserole dish is recommended for this recipe.
How long does the casserole need to bake?
The dish should bake for approximately 25 minutes until bubbling and golden.
What vegetables are included in this dish?
The recipe includes onion, celery, and corn kernels.
What kind of pasta should I use?
Gluten-free rotini, penne, or fusilli are the recommended shapes.
How much tuna is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 6 ounces of tuna, drained.
What makes the sauce creamy?
The creaminess comes from a mixture of dairy-free mayonnaise and salsa.
Is the goat cheese mandatory?
No, the shredded goat cheese is an optional topping for added tangy richness.
How do I prepare the pasta for the bake?
Cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions until al dente before adding it to the bake.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
You can loosen the mixture with a few teaspoons of non-dairy milk or gluten-free chicken broth.
How long should I sauté the onion and celery?
Sauté the chopped onion and celery for about 3 minutes or until softened.
What type of oil is best for sautéing the vegetables?
The recipe specifies using canola oil for sautéing.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it is described as perfect for meal prep or a cozy weeknight dinner.
When do I add the corn kernels?
Stir in the corn after the onion and celery have softened and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
What spices are used for the southwestern flavor?
The flavor comes from a combination of salsa and optional chili powder.
How do I prepare the casserole dish?
Lightly coat the casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray before adding the mixture.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 main ingredients in this recipe.
What are the key tags for this dish?
Key tags include casserole, tuna, gluten-free, dairy-free, one-dish meal, and comfort food.
Can I use any type of salsa?
Yes, you can use one cup of your preferred salsa to mix into the sauce.
Should the tuna be drained?
Yes, the 6 ounces of tuna should be drained before being folded into the mixture.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
It is done when the mixture is bubbling and the top is lightly golden.
Can I use regular mayonnaise?
The recipe calls for dairy-free mayonnaise to keep the dish dairy-free, but regular mayo works if dairy isn't a concern.
Is this recipe considered a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is a hearty one-dish meal that combines protein, carbs, and vegetables.
How much chili powder should I add?
The recipe suggests 1 teaspoon of chili powder, though it is optional.
What should I do after removing it from the oven?
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.
Is this dish budget-friendly?
Yes, using canned tuna and pantry staples like pasta and salsa makes it an affordable option.
How much corn is needed?
The recipe requires 1 and 1/2 cups of corn kernels.