Tuna and Cheddar Skillet

Transform weeknight dinners with this comforting and creamy Tuna and Cheddar Skillet, a one-pan wonder that’s as easy as it is delicious. Featuring tender pasta coated in a rich, homemade cheddar cheese sauce, this recipe combines pantry staples like canned tuna and frozen peas for a quick yet satisfying meal. The golden roux base gives the dish a luxurious texture, while sautéed onions and garlic infuse every bite with flavor. Ready in just 30 minutes, this cheesy tuna pasta is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of brightness, and serve it straight from the skillet for minimal cleanup. Keywords: tuna skillet, cheesy tuna pasta, easy weeknight dinner, one-pan meal, tuna casserole alternative.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 3 cups cooked pasta (e.g., elbow macaroni, penne, or shells)
• 2 5-ounce cans canned tuna, drained
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 0.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.

Step 2

Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3

Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to create a paste (roux). Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 4

Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5

Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 6

Add the cooked pasta, drained tuna, and thawed peas to the skillet. Gently stir until everything is combined and coated in the cheesy sauce.

Step 7

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Step 8

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2029.1 grams (2029.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3035

Total Fat 115.30g	148%
Saturated Fat 68.60g	343%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.00g
Cholesterol 457mg	152%
Sodium 4066mg	177%
Total Carbohydrate 297.80g	108%
Dietary Fiber 26.00g	93%
Total Sugars 42.80g
Protein 199.10g	398%

Vitamin D 1027IU	5135%
Calcium 2380mg	183%
Iron 17mg	94%
Potassium 2647mg	56%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 34.3%

Protein: 26.3%

Carbs: 39.4%