Slow Cooker Tuna Rice Bowl: Ultimate Easy Weeknight Dinner

January 27, 2026

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Slow cooker tuna rice bowl is the ultimate comfort food remix! This isn’t your average tuna casserole. This is a creamy, flavorful, and surprisingly healthy twist on a classic, all made in your trusty slow cooker. Remember those busy weeknights when dinner felt impossible? This slow cooker tuna rice bowl recipe is about to become your new best friend, freeing up your time and delivering a satisfying meal everyone will love.

Growing up, I always loved tuna casserole but felt it was a bit heavy. This version lightens things up, adds fresh veggies, and lets the slow cooker do all the work. Truly, this is one of my favorite ways to enjoy a delicious and convenient meal, and I’m so excited to share it with you! Try this slow cooker tuna rice bowl tonight and see those happy faces at the dinner table.

Why You Will Love This slow cooker tuna rice bowl Recipe

This simple slow cooker tuna rice bowl delivers big on flavor and convenience. Picture this: a creamy, savory rice base, studded with tender tuna, vibrant veggies, and a hint of cheesy goodness. The best part? It’s all cooked in your slow cooker, freeing you up for other things.

This recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. I love that I can prep everything in the morning, set the slow cooker, and come home to a delicious and comforting meal. The leftovers, if there are any, are fantastic for lunch the next day too! It truly shows that good food doesn’t need to be complicated. You can check out my other delicious slow cooker recipes, like Slow Cooker Chicken Rice Bowl 4!

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This slow cooker tuna creation is also healthier than traditional tuna casseroles. We use less cream and incorporate plenty of fresh vegetables for a balanced and satisfying meal. My grandmother, who inspired me to cook, would have loved this lighter, brighter version of a classic! It makes me so happy knowing that I can share a recipe that’s both comforting and nourishing.

Ingredients Needed for This slow cooker tuna rice bowl Recipe

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed
4 cups chicken broth
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 (5 ounce) cans tuna in water, drained
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

How to Make This slow cooker tuna rice bowl Recipe

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Transfer onion and garlic to your slow cooker.
3. Add rice, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, peas and carrots, milk, and Parmesan cheese to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed. Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker. Be sure to check your rice after 2 1/2 hours.
5. Stir in tuna and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook for an additional 15 minutes to heat the tuna through.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

How to Serve This slow cooker tuna rice bowl Recipe

This slow cooker tuna rice bowl is a complete meal on its own, but you can also jazz it up with some simple sides. A side salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy rice. Alternatively, steamed green beans or broccoli provide a healthy and colorful addition. Did you know that this recipe is so flavorful you could make it with Slow Cooker Chicken Rice Bowl 3?

For a more decadent touch, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top or add a dollop of sour cream. Consider toasting some breadcrumbs with a little butter and garlic powder for a crunchy topping. Serve immediately, and enjoy the satisfying flavors of this comforting dish.

How to Store This slow cooker tuna rice bowl Recipe

Leftover slow cooker tuna rice bowl should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions in freezer safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, microwave until heated through, or warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to restore the creamy consistency. Always ensure the dish is piping hot before serving.

Tips to Make This slow cooker tuna rice bowl Recipe

For a richer flavor, use cream of celery or cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
If you prefer a different type of cheese, cheddar or Monterey Jack work well.
Make sure the rice is fully cooked before adding the tuna to prevent it from drying out.
Drain that tuna well! No one wants a watery rice bowl.

If you’re looking for something a little different, consider adding some chopped celery or bell pepper to the slow cooker along with the onion and garlic. For a spicier version, try adding a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapenos. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your preferences. Follow us on Pinterest for more yummy recipes like this!

Helpful Notes for This slow cooker tuna rice bowl Recipe

The type of rice you use is crucial for this recipe. Long grain rice is recommended because it holds its shape well during the long cooking time in the slow cooker. Avoid using instant rice, as it will become mushy.

Chicken broth adds a savory depth of flavor, but you can substitute vegetable broth or even water if needed. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly. If your broth is salted, be mindful of the amount of extra salt you add.

Using tuna packed in water is recommended to keep the dish light and avoid extra oil. Be sure to drain the tuna well before adding it to the slow cooker.

Variation of This slow cooker tuna rice bowl Recipe

Cheesy Tuna Rice Bowl: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for an extra cheesy flavor.
Spicy Tuna Rice Bowl: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper to the slow cooker for a kick of heat.
Veggie Loaded Tuna Rice Bowl: Add 1 cup of chopped vegetables like broccoli florets, cauliflower, or chopped bell peppers to the slow cooker along with the peas and carrots.
Creamy Tuna Rice Bowl: Substitute the milk with half and half or heavy cream for a richer, creamier texture.

Can I use brown rice in my slow cooker tuna rice bowl?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook than white rice, so check the rice for doneness and add more broth if needed.

What are some good additions to my slow cooker tuna rice bowl?

Vegetables like peas, corn, or chopped celery are great additions. You could also add some shredded cheese on top for extra creaminess or a sprinkle of paprika for a smoky flavor.

How long can I store leftovers of slow cooker tuna rice bowl?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving to ensure food safety.

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

While possible, canned tuna is generally preferred for its convenience and texture in this recipe. If using fresh tuna, cook it separately and then gently fold it into the rice bowl mixture near the end of the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

This slow cooker tuna rice bowl is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a modern, convenient touch. The creamy texture, flavorful tuna, and simple preparation make it a guaranteed hit with your family. Give this slow cooker tuna rice bowl recipe a try tonight and let me know what you think in the comments below! It’s my hope that you enjoy this light and bright version of a classic!