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Tuna Helper

Tuna Helper
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A quick, comforting Tuna Helper recipe that combines canned tuna, pasta, and a creamy cheesy sauce for a kid-friendly, customizable, and nourishing weeknight meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 can (5 oz) chunk light or solid white canned tuna, drained
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni or pasta shells
  • 1 packet cheesy creamy sauce mix (or homemade blend)
  • 1 1/4 cups milk (or dairy-free substitute)
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Optional Vegetables

  • 1/2 cup peas, corn, or diced bell peppers (steamed or sautéed)

Seasonings

  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions, about 7 to 9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the creamy sauce mix. Gradually add milk while whisking continuously to create a smooth, rich sauce without lumps.
  3. Add Tuna and Vegetables: Drain the canned tuna well. Gently fold the tuna and any pre-steamed or sautéed optional vegetables into the sauce mixture, stirring carefully to avoid breaking up the tuna too much.
  4. Combine Pasta with Sauce: Return the cooked pasta to the pot and toss gently to coat every piece with the creamy tuna sauce. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper as needed.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is evenly combined and warmed through, transfer the Tuna Helper to plates or bowls. Garnish as desired and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Drain tuna well to prevent watery sauce.
  • Reserve some pasta cooking water to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
  • Do not overcook pasta; al dente texture is ideal.
  • For extra creaminess, mix in a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and aroma.

Nutrition

Keywords: Tuna Helper, quick dinner, canned tuna, creamy pasta, comfort food, kid-friendly, easy recipe

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/tuna-helper/