Homemade Tuna Helper Recipe
This homemade tuna helper recipe is a creamy, comforting one-pan meal full of nostalgic flavor. This easy, cheesy dinner is ready in just about half an hour, making it a perfect way to to add some budget friendly variety to your weeknight rotation.
Servings: 6
Calories: 672kcal
Ingredients
- 1 12 oz bag egg noodle pasta
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- salt & pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half & half at room temperature
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 7 oz cans albacore tuna in water well drained & flaked
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions for 'al dente'. Drain and set aside.1 12 oz bag egg noodle pasta
- While the pasta cooks add the butter to a large pot set over medium heat. Once melted add the flour and whisk to combine. Add the seasonings and stir to combine.4 tbsp butter, 1/4 cup flour, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, salt & pepper
- Slowly pour in the broth whisking constantly to incorporate and prevent any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.2 cups chicken broth
- Turn down the heat and pour in the half & half, whisking often and bring the mixture back to a simmer. Cook just until the sauce has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.1 cup half & half
- Remove the pot from heat and add the cheeses, stirring to combine. Continue stirring until melted and smooth.2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Add the pasta and tuna to the pot and stir until evenly incorporated.2 7 oz cans albacore tuna in water
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Want to add some veggies? Stir in some frozen peas, steamed broccoli, or sauteed mushrooms.
- Start making the sauce while the water for the pasta is coming to a boil so everything is ready right around the same time.
- Don't substitute non fat half and half for this. You need the fat to help the sauce thicken and come together.
Nutrition
Calories: 672kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 40g | Fat: 34g | Saturated Fat: 19g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 163mg | Sodium: 1175mg | Potassium: 439mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 948IU | Vitamin C: 0.4mg | Calcium: 494mg | Iron: 2mg