Hearty Tuna and Potato Gratin with Cheesy Golden Crust

Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Tuna Mixture:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cans (5 oz each) of tuna, drained
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste or 1 cup tomato sauce
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Gratin Assembly:

• 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• Olive oil or butter, for greasing the dish

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes:

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (400°F).
2. Combine and Cook: In a saucepan, combine the sliced potatoes, milk, and butter. Season with salt and black pepper.
3. Simmer: Cook over medium heat until the potatoes are just tender but not fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Stir gently to avoid breaking the slices.

Prepare the Tuna Mixture:

1. Sauté Onions: While the potatoes are cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and slightly golden.
2. Add Tuna and Tomato: Add the drained tuna and tomato paste or sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Gratin:

1. Grease Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil or butter.
2. Layer Ingredients:

• Layer half of the potatoes at the bottom of the dish.
• Spread the tuna mixture evenly over the potatoes.
• Top with the remaining potatoes.

1. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheese over the top layer of potatoes.

Bake:

1. Bake Gratin: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake until the cheese is melted and golden, about 20-25 minutes. If you prefer a more golden top, you can broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Serve:

1. Let It Sit: Remove the gratin from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
2. Serve Hot: Serve hot with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad. Pair with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a complete meal.

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Cooking Tips:

• Extra Flavor: For added flavor, you can mix some garlic powder or paprika into the milk when cooking the potatoes.
• Vegetable Layer: Consider adding a layer of cooked vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers between the potato and tuna layers for a more nutritious dish.
• Creamier Gratin: If you prefer a creamier gratin, mix a small amount of cream with the milk.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Potatoes: A good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber.
• Tuna: High in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart health and muscle repair.
• Cheese: Provides calcium and protein, contributing to bone health.

Dietary Information:

• High-Protein: This dish is high in protein from the tuna and cheese.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free for a suitable meal.
• Affordable: Uses budget-friendly ingredients to create a hearty meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Comforting: Perfect for a cozy dinner, with layers of creamy potatoes and savory tuna.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and ingredients make this dish accessible for any cook.
• Versatile: Can be customized with different vegetables and seasonings to suit your taste.

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Conclusion

Enjoy this Hearty Tuna and Potato Gratin with Cheesy Golden Crust, a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this gratin is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Serve hot and savor the delightful combination of tender potatoes, flavorful tuna, and melted cheese.

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Feel free to adjust the ingredients or steps as needed for your blog or audience.