Homemade Tuna Helper
Whip up a comforting classic with this Homemade Tuna Helper recipe—a quick, budget-friendly meal that's perfect for busy weeknights! Featuring tender elbow macaroni in a creamy, cheesy sauce infused with sautéed onions, garlic, and flaked tuna, this dish is a delicious upgrade from the store-bought version. Bursting with flavor and loaded with frozen peas for a pop of freshness, this easy one-dish wonder comes together in just 30 minutes. Ideal for family dinners, this homemade take on a childhood favorite is customizable, wholesome, and sure to become a weeknight staple. Enjoy this creamy tuna casserole-inspired recipe straight from the skillet for maximum comfort and convenience!
Try SnapCalorie's FREE AI assisted nutrition tracking free in the App store or on Android.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces Elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Milk
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Ground black pepper
- 0.5 cup Chopped onion
- 0.5 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 12 ounces Canned tuna, drained
- 1 cup Frozen peas
- 1 cup Grated cheddar cheese
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3
Stir in the all-purpose flour to coat the onions, cooking for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
Step 4
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps, and cook until the sauce begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 5
Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 6
Add the drained tuna and frozen peas to the sauce, stirring gently to combine and heat through, about 2 minutes.
Step 7
Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
Step 8
Add the drained macaroni to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
Step 9
Serve warm and enjoy your homemade Tuna Helper!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | 1450.2 grams (1450.2g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2408 |
| Total Fat 77.20g | 99% |
| Saturated Fat 43.70g | 219% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 1.00g | |
| Cholesterol 359mg | 120% |
| Sodium 3556mg | 155% |
| Total Carbohydrate 244.80g | 89% |
| Dietary Fiber 18.20g | 65% |
| Total Sugars 44.40g | |
| Protein 175.00g | 350% |
| Vitamin D 1155IU | 5775% |
| Calcium 1514mg | 116% |
| Iron 18mg | 99% |
| Potassium 2230mg | 47% |
Source of Calories