Stuff Baked Potatoes With Canned Tuna For An Easy, Elevated Dinner

A steaming baked potato, split and buttered fresh from the oven is as ambrosial as it gets. Better yet, it's the perfect low-budget meal, takes virtually zero effort to prepare, and is suitable for all palates, from weaning babies and teenagers to grandmas with sensitive stomachs. However, this cheap, comforting dish can be elevated further with a little scooping action, a simple can of tuna, and a scattering of ooey gooey melted cheese. Yes, it's time to transform your weeknight dinner into a magnificent meal using that unassuming tin of tuna fish in your pantry.

When you want protein and you want it pronto, canned tuna is the perfect source. In fact, 100g of canned tuna in brine provides almost 25g of protein. What's more, tuna in a can boasts a long shelf life and is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to improve eye and brain health. Pair this premier protein with a fluffy baked potato and a sauce to combine, and you have a balanced, filling, and yummy meal on your hands that's a doddle to prepare and a dream to devour.

Bake your potatoes in the oven rather than microwaving them if you enjoy a beautifully crisp, wrinkly skin that crackles when you cut it open. Having said that, microwaving your spud is still a viable option if you're low on time (the stuffed skin will crisp up during its final bake in the oven anyway). Whichever option you choose, allow your potatoes to cool slightly to make them easier to handle when you split them. Once cooled, cut them straight down the center to create two identically sized halves before scooping out the insides with a spoon. Aim to leave a narrow channel of potato around the edge of the skin so your spud still has some rigidity. Finally, mix the scooped-out potato with your canned tuna, pile it back into your potato skins, cover it with cheese, and return to the oven to heat through and crisp up. 

Incorporating a sauce, like ready-made Alfredo, marinara, or even mayo, along with your canned tuna will lend your stuffed potatoes a rich flavor and moist texture. So too will mixing in veggies and add-ins, such as sweetcorn, scallions, or kidney beans. Indeed, the beauty of a tuna-stuffed baked potato is that pairs well with almost anything. Plus, it's a great crowd-pleaser and can be prepped in advance for bigger gatherings because it only requires a quick heat through in the oven before serving.