Better Than Tuna Helper
Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this comforting and flavorful homemade “Better Than Tuna Helper” recipe! Packed with tender egg noodles, a creamy, cheesy sauce made from scratch, and the perfect balance of savory spices, this dish is an irresistible upgrade from the classic boxed meal. The addition of hearty canned tuna and sweet green peas brings protein and freshness to every bite, while an optional crispy breadcrumb topping adds the perfect golden crunch. Ready in just 30 minutes, this kid-friendly, budget-conscious meal is perfect for busy nights. Bonus: It’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients! Whether baked or served straight from the stovetop, this comforting casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cups Parmesan cheese, grated
- 12 ounces canned tuna, drained
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 cups breadcrumbs (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil spray or melted butter (optional, for breadcrumbs)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet or pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbly and golden brown.
Slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth, making sure there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. Mix until fully melted and smooth.
Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
Gently fold in the drained tuna and frozen peas. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the peas are heated through.
Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly in the sauce.
Optional: If you'd prefer a crispy breadcrumb topping, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle over the top. Bake for 10 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serve warm and enjoy your Better Than Tuna Helper!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2739 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 130.3 g | 167% | |
| Saturated Fat | 77.5 g | 388% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 618 mg | 206% | |
| Sodium | 5344 mg | 232% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 188.2 g | 68% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.5 g | 55% | |
| Total Sugars | 38.6 g | ||
| Protein | 208.5 g | 417% | |
| Vitamin D | 29.5 mcg | 147% | |
| Calcium | 2824 mg | 217% | |
| Iron | 17.5 mg | 97% | |
| Potassium | 2484 mg | 53% | |
*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.
