Transform mealtime into a family favorite with "Kids Love Tuna Mac," the ultimate comfort food mashup that's kid-approved and parent-friendly! This creamy, cheesy tuna macaroni combines tender elbow pasta with savory chunks of tuna, vibrant peas, and a velvety cheddar cheese sauce made from scratch. Perfectly seasoned with a touch of salt and pepper, this recipe is quick and easy, coming together in just 30 minutesβideal for busy weeknights. With its balance of protein, veggies, and gooey cheese, this dish is sure to become a household staple. Serve it warm, and watch as picky eaters dig in with delight!
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden to create a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the mixture has thickened.
Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
Season the cheese sauce with salt and ground black pepper, adjusting to taste.
Fold the drained tuna and frozen peas into the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
Pour the cheese-tuna mixture over the cooked macaroni and toss until evenly coated.
Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, delicious Kids Love Tuna Mac!
Calories |
2628 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 108.0 g | 138% | |
| Saturated Fat | 64.9 g | 324% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 438 mg | 146% | |
| Sodium | 3972 mg | 173% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 229.0 g | 83% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.8 g | 60% | |
| Total Sugars | 29.3 g | ||
| Protein | 179.9 g | 360% | |
| Vitamin D | 21.8 mcg | 109% | |
| Calcium | 1998 mg | 154% | |
| Iron | 16.0 mg | 89% | |
| Potassium | 1473 mg | 31% | |
*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.