Description
This homemade Tuna Helper recipe offers a creamy, comforting twist on the classic convenience meal. Featuring tender elbow macaroni coated in a rich cheddar cheese sauce, perfectly seasoned with onion, garlic, and paprika, and combined with flaky tuna and optional peas, this stovetop dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a family-friendly main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or shell pasta
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained and flaked
- 1/4 cup frozen peas (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add elbow macaroni or shell pasta. Cook according to package directions until al dente, usually around 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Make the roux: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in the flour, stirring constantly to form a smooth paste. Cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Prepare the sauce: Slowly whisk in milk to the roux until smooth and free of lumps. Add sour cream, onion powder, garlic powder, dried parsley, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add cheese and protein: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted and the sauce is creamy. Fold in the drained, flaked tuna and frozen peas if using, mixing gently to combine all ingredients.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese and tuna mixture. Stir carefully until the pasta is fully coated and heated through, ensuring an even distribution of tuna and sauce.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the creamy tuna pasta hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.
- For a crispy finish, sprinkle crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs on top and broil for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
