Better Than Tuna Helper Recipe

Conquer picky eaters with this unbelievably creamy and flavorful tuna casserole! Designed for busy families (especially those with hungry boys!), this recipe ditches the boxed mixes for a from-scratch version that's surprisingly quick and easy. Get ready for a taste sensation that's both comforting and impressive. Customize it with your favorite additions for a truly personalized family meal.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Calories 853.5 kcal
Protein 93g
Rating 4.5 (2 Reviews)
Better Than Tuna Helper 104

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Better Than Tuna Helper

  • 1 (12 ounce) package wide egg noodles
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 1 1/2 cups half-and-half cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 (16 ounce) package Velveeta, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 (1 3/8 ounce) package vegetable soup mix
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 (6 ounce) cans tuna in water or oil, drained
  • 1 (12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk
  • 1 (10 3/4 ounce) can cream of celery soup
  • 1 (10 3/4 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 (10 3/4 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
  • elbow macaroni, according to package directions
  • frozen peas, desired amount
  • shredded cheddar cheese, for topping

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How to Make Better Than Tuna Helper

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  3. While macaroni is cooking, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Stir in cream of mushroom soup and milk. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
  5. Add drained tuna, frozen peas, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Simmer for 2 minutes.
  6. Stir in cooked macaroni and mix well to coat.
  7. Pour mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  8. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
  9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

88 g

Sugar

23g

Fat

109g

Carbs

25g