Description
This Homemade Tuna Helper is a quick, comforting meal made with tender egg noodles, a creamy cheese sauce, and hearty tuna. Enhanced with peas, corn, and a touch of Dijon mustard for extra flavor, it’s a delicious and easy-to-make dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz egg noodles
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup frozen green peas
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
Protein
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Sauté the onion: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Make the roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour with the cooked onions and butter. Cook the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes to form a roux, which will help thicken the sauce.
- Add the milk: Gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps. Continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Incorporate the other sauce ingredients: Add the frozen peas, frozen corn, cream cheese, grated Parmesan, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, and kosher salt. Stir continuously for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and the ingredients are well combined.
- Combine noodles and tuna: Add the cooked egg noodles, drained tuna, and 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley to the sauce. Stir gently and cook for about 1 minute to warm through and blend flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the remaining parsley on top for a fresh finish. Serve the homemade tuna helper warm and enjoy a hearty, comforting meal.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth melting.
- If you prefer, substitute cream cheese with heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- You can use fresh vegetables instead of frozen; just adjust cooking time accordingly.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free egg noodles.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
