Description
This Homemade Tuna Helper is a creamy, comforting one-pot meal featuring tender egg noodles, savory tuna, and a rich cheese sauce loaded with peas and corn. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a perfect quick dinner that satisfies the whole family with a deliciously cheesy and hearty flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces egg noodles
Sauce
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup frozen green peas
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
Tuna and Garnish
- 12 ounces canned tuna, drained
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (divided)
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Onions: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the finely chopped onion for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Make Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux and eliminate any raw flour taste.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk and continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens slightly into a creamy sauce.
- Incorporate Vegetables and Seasoning: Add the frozen peas, frozen corn, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, and kosher salt. Stir continuously for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and the cheeses are melted and well combined.
- Combine with Noodles and Tuna: Stir in the cooked egg noodles, drained tuna, and 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley. Mix gently but thoroughly for about 1 minute to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Serve: Garnish the finished dish with the remaining tablespoon of parsley and serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Use cream cheese at room temperature for easier melting and a smoother sauce.
- Feel free to substitute milk with a milk alternative like almond or oat milk if desired.
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add breadcrumbs on top and broil briefly for a crispy crunchy topping, if desired.
