Description
This Homemade Tuna Helper is a creamy, comforting pasta dish made with tender egg noodles, sweet peas, corn, and flaked tuna in a savory cheese sauce. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
noodles and Vegetables
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1/2 cup frozen green peas
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 2 tablespoons yellow onion, finely chopped
sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 ounces cream cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
protein and garnish
- 1 (5-ounce) can tuna, drained and flaked
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Prepare the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while preparing the sauce.
- Sauté Onion: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Make Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir as the mixture cooks for 2–3 minutes until it slightly thickens and becomes smooth.
- Add Vegetables and Flavorings: Stir in the frozen peas, frozen corn, cream cheese, grated Parmesan, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, and kosher salt. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce is creamy and all ingredients are well combined.
- Combine Pasta and Tuna: Add the cooked egg noodles, flaked tuna, and 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley to the sauce. Stir gently for about 1 minute until everything is evenly incorporated and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the remaining chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish, then serve the Tuna Helper warm.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smoother melting.
- You can substitute cream cheese with sour cream for a tangier twist.
- Feel free to add other frozen vegetables like carrots or broccoli to increase the veggie content.
- If you prefer, use whole wheat egg noodles or gluten-free pasta to make it healthier or gluten-free.
- Make sure to drain the tuna well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
