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One-Pan Creamy Tuna Pasta for Weeknight Dinner

A close-up of creamy tuna pasta made with fusilli, corn, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, served in a white ramekin.
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Make this creamy, comforting tuna pasta in one pan. It uses pantry staples and cooks quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 (5 oz) cans tuna in water, drained
  • 1 cup frozen peas and corn mix
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the cooking water. Set the cooked pasta aside.
  2. In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
  5. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth until smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Stir in the drained tuna, frozen peas and corn, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are heated through.
  7. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  8. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.
  9. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 5 minutes off the heat, allowing the flavors to meld. Serve directly from the pan.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
  • If you prefer a baked version, transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, top with cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden. This recipe is a good alternative to using meal delivery companies for a quick dinner.
  • This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed green beans.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delicerecipe.com/quick-creamy-tuna-pasta-weeknight-dinner/