French Style Carrot and Tuna Gratin(one dish meal, gluten free, good source of fibre, contains dairy)
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Hello, I’m Keely! I'm a Canadian Registered Dietitian, an avid food and recipe writer, travel bug and nutrition expert. For more information about me, check out my bio here.
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A Comforting, Cheesy, One-Dish Wonder!
This cozy, oven-baked gratin is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug—simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor. My husband often makes this when it’s his turn to cook, a nostalgic nod to his childhood in France, where his mother prepared it regularly.
And like any great French-inspired recipe, you’ll find two key ingredients: wine and cheese—because, let’s be honest, what’s not to love?
At its heart, this dish is about balance: sweet, caramelized onions and carrots meld beautifully with the briny, savory depth of tuna. A splash of dry white wine enhances the flavors, while melted, golden cheese on top creates an irresistible crust. It’s comforting yet surprisingly light, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner that still feels special.
This cozy, oven-baked gratin is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug—simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor. My husband often makes this when it’s his turn to cook, a nostalgic nod to his childhood in France, where his mother prepared it regularly.
And like any great French-inspired recipe, you’ll find two key ingredients: wine and cheese—because, let’s be honest, what’s not to love?
At its heart, this dish is about balance: sweet, caramelized onions and carrots meld beautifully with the briny, savory depth of tuna. A splash of dry white wine enhances the flavors, while melted, golden cheese on top creates an irresistible crust. It’s comforting yet surprisingly light, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner that still feels special.
HERE IS WHAT YOU WILL NEED
- Canned Tuna – I like to use one can packed in water and one in olive oil for the best flavor and texture. Be sure to drain both before using.
- Cheese – Gouda is my go-to, but Gruyère or mozzarella work beautifully. For an extra indulgent twist, mix two cheeses together—because why not?
- White Wine – A dry white like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc is ideal. It enhances the sweetness of the carrots while adding a subtle acidity.
- Canned Tomatoes – Opt for low-sodium varieties to control the seasoning. The tomatoes add richness and a hint of umami.
- Carrots – Fresh, organic carrots bring natural sweetness. I sometimes grate mine in a food processor, but not always as a hand grater works just as well.
