Description
This Tuna Helper recipe offers a quick and easy meal solution featuring creamy cheesy pasta combined with tender tuna and peas. Perfect for busy weeknights, it blends the comforting flavors of a homemade tuna casserole done entirely on the stovetop in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Proteins
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or small pasta
- 2 cans (5 ounces each) tuna in water, drained
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside to be combined later.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the roux and sauce: Stir in butter and let it melt completely. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook the mixture for 1 minute to form a light roux. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken or vegetable broth while stirring constantly, cooking until the sauce thickens, approximately 4 to 5 minutes.
- Season the sauce: Add salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried parsley to the thickened sauce. Stir well to combine all the flavors evenly.
- Combine pasta and peas: Add the cooked pasta and frozen peas directly to the skillet with the sauce. Stir gently to combine, allowing the peas to warm through.
- Add tuna and cheese: Fold in the drained tuna and cook for 2 to 3 minutes over medium heat until heated throughout. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and creates a creamy texture. If using, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
- Serve warm: Transfer the cheesy tuna pasta to plates or bowls and enjoy immediately for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce just before serving.
- Substitute frozen peas with mixed vegetables or add sautéed mushrooms for additional texture and nutrition.
- Use whole wheat pasta as a healthier, heartier alternative.
