Tuna Parmesan from Great-Grandma

This cozy dish has been a family favorite for generations, blending tender tuna with a rich, cheesy topping that's sure to please everyone at the table. It's simple to make and perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.

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TIME30 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

2 (8 ounce) jars tuna packed in oil, drained 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 cup Italian-seasoned bread crumbs 1 large egg, beaten ¼ cup olive oil 1 (8 ounce) can pasta sauce

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

In a medium bowl, mix together the tuna, Parmesan, bread crumbs, and egg until everything is well combined. Shape the mixture into about seven small patties. Heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the patties for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they’re lightly browned. Meanwhile, warm up your pasta sauce in another pan until it’s gently simmering. Once the patties are browned, carefully add them to the sauce, spoon some sauce over the top, and let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and the patties finish cooking through.

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use fresh tuna or high-quality canned tuna for the best taste.
- Make sure the Parmesan cheese is finely grated to create a nice golden crust.
- Avoid overcooking the tuna to keep it tender and moist.

Why you’ll love it

This dish combines the rich flavors of tuna with a crispy, cheesy topping that is both comforting and satisfying. It’s a family favorite that brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to the table.

Serving ideas

Serve this dish alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A crusty bread or garlic toast also pairs well to soak up any extra sauce.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the topping crispy, avoiding the microwave if possible.