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Tuna Helper Recipe
Chef Paula

Tuna Helper Recipe

This Tuna Helper Recipe is a creamy, comforting classic that transforms simple pantry ingredients into a hearty, homemade meal. Forget the boxed version; this from-scratch recipe delivers tender pasta, rich sauce, and flaky tuna with fresh flavor in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or nostalgic family dinners, it’s quick, budget-friendly, and full of heart.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: pasta, Tuna Recipes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 410
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz Elbow macaroni Or shell pasta
  • 2 tbsp Butter Unsalted preferred
  • 2 tbsp All-purpose flour For thickening sauce
  • 2 cups Milk Whole or 2 percent
  • 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar adds flavor
  • 1 can Tuna Drained and flaked
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder Optional
  • 1/4 tsp Onion powder Optional
  • 1/4 tsp Salt To taste
  • 1/8 tsp Black pepper To taste
  • 1 tbsp Parsley For garnish

Equipment

  • 1 Large skillet For cooking the sauce and pasta together
  • 1 Saucepan To boil pasta
  • 1 Wooden spoon (for stirring)
  • 1 Strainer To drain pasta
  • 1 Measuring cup For liquids and cheese

Method
 

  1. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a smooth roux and cook for 1 to 2 minutes.
  3. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and thickened.
  4. Stir in shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until creamy and well-blended.
  5. Add the drained tuna and cooked pasta to the skillet. Mix gently to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
  6. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving for the flavors to settle.
  7. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and half the cheese.
  • Add frozen peas, corn, or diced carrots for extra color and nutrition.
  • Want it baked? Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and broil for 3 minutes until golden.
  • Serve alongside the Garlic Mashed Potatoes or Apple Chickpea Salad for a full meal.
  • Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to two days.
Tuna Helper Recipe
Tuna Helper Recipe
Tuna Helper Recipe