Tuna Helper Recipe
A quick and creamy pasta dish with tuna and a rich cheese sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 cups 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni or shell pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Roux: In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
- Create the Sauce: Gradually pour in milk and chicken broth, whisking to combine. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Season and Add Cheese:Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine with Tuna and Pasta: Add the drained tuna and cooked pasta to the sauce. Stir gently to coat everything evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch.
- You can add peas or diced carrots for extra nutrition and color.