5 Minute Meal: Microwave Cheesy Tuna Rice ‘Bake’

Microwave Cheesy Tuna Rice ‘Bake’: a speedy, spicy, and cheesy meal perfect for busy or lazy days. Ready in just a few minutes!

Have you ever had those incredibly busy (or lazy) days where you have no time or energy but are craving something fulfilling and spicy? This Microwave Cheesy Tuna Rice Bake is what I make in those times! Cheesy, spicy, and oh-so-satisfying, this dish totally hits the spot. It’s a comforting, spicy, and cheesy meal that’s ready in minutes.

This recipe combines pantry staples with a touch of indulgence, making it perfect for those days when you want something quick yet delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Tuna Rice ‘Bake’

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just a few minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Comforting and Hearty: A satisfying blend of rice, tuna, and cheese that hits all the right notes.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooked in a single bowl, which means less washing up afterward.
• Spicy Kick: The chili oil adds a flavorful, spicy twist that makes this dish stand out.

Key Ingredients for Microwave Cheesy Tuna Rice ‘Bake’

Cooked Rice

Provides the hearty base of the dish! Any rice will work, but I like this particularly with Japanese short grain rice (sushi rice).

Ultimate Cheat Ingredient: Flavoured Canned Tuna!

For that instant kick of flavour! I always have a couple of cans of flavoured tuna in my pantry for emergency times like this! This Chilli Tuna from Ayam Brand is my all-time fave, but I also love their curry tuna. Use any of your favourite flavoured canned tuna.

No flavoured tuna? No problem! You can DIY your canned tuna. I wouldn’t recommend just using plain canned tuna… it’s not appealing.

These are my easy favourite tuna combos:

• 1 canned tuna + 2 tbsp chilli oil

• 1 canned tuna + 2 tbsp kewpie mayo + 1 tbsp sriracha/chilli sauce of choice

Don’t limit yourself to tuna, you can also use canned sardines.

Everything Else

• Egg

Creates a rich, creamy texture when cooked with the rice and cheese! It also adds extra protein to keep me full for longer.

• Shredded Cheese

Melts beautifully, adding gooey, cheesy goodness to the dish.

• Salt and Pepper, to taste

I find that I don’t ever need to add seasoning – the flavoured tuna and cheese does all the hard work for me! But if you’re not using these, make sure you add salt, to taste. Just a sprinkle over the top, and a quick mix will easily get you a well-seasoned bowl.

• Veggies

To up the nutrition level, add corn, diced carrots or edamame!

Key Steps

1. Layer Ingredients

• Start with a layer of cooked rice in a microwave-safe bowl. Pack with a spoon to smoothen the top.

• Add the chili tuna on top, and even spread over the rice. If using corn, add over the tuna.

• Layer on the egg next.

• Finish with a generous amount of shredded cheese.

TIP! Add a drizzle of the chilli tuna oil from the can to the bottom of the bowl to flavour the bottom of the rice!

2. Microwave

• Cook on high for 3-4 minutes, until the cheese is melted, and the egg is cooked to your preference.

• Adjust the cooking time if necessary.

3. Season and Serve!

• Optional: garnish with cilantro or spring onions. Add salt and pepper to taste for extra flavor.

• Mix to combine all the flavours together. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve

• Serve Hot: Enjoy this dish straight from the bowl for a quick and satisfying meal.

• Pair With: A side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal, if you like.

Tips and Tricks

• Microwave Wattage: Cooking times may vary depending on your microwave’s wattage, but I wouldn’t overthink it. As long as the eggs are heated or cooked through, you’re good.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to use any type of cheese you like or have on hand! Cheddar and mozzarella (always my favourite combo for my recipes here!) are great choices for melting.
• Egg Consistency: If you want an oozy yolk, keep the microwave going for just 1-2 minutes!
• Add Veggies: To up the nutritional value, add veggies! Corn, diced carrots, edamame, chopped tomatoes are some of my faves.

Storing and Reheating

Storing

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until hot. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

More Recipes Like This

• Spicy Sesame Noodles in 5 Minutes!
• 10 Minute Carbonara Noodles
• Thai Mixed Noodles (street food-inspired!)
• Cheesy Rabokki | Ramen and Tteokbokki
• Kewpie Carbonara Instant Ramen Noodles

Microwave Cheesy Baked Tuna Rice

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200g) cooked rice

• 1 can chili-flavored tuna (or regular tuna with 1 tablespoon chili oil mixed in)

• 1 egg

• 1/2 cup (60g) shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

• Layer Ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl, spread the cooked rice evenly at the bottom. Top with the chili tuna (or regular tuna mixed with chili oil). If using vegetables, layer over the tuna. Crack the egg on top of the tuna.

• Add Cheese: Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the top.

• Microwave: Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, or until the egg is cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• Season and garnish (optional): Garnish with cilantro or spring onions, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Serve: Mix to combine and enjoy your cheesy baked tuna rice straight from the bowl!