1 Skillet, 20-Minute, Homemade Tuna Helper

This meal is a family favorite and one of my go to meals. Tuna Helper can be so unassuming, but it’s definitely worth the [little] time spent as it always delivers.

I almost always have every ingredient on hand to made this Homemade Tuna Helper, and you can’t beat a 1 skillet, 20-minute meal on a busy night that includes a green vegetable. This takes just as long to make as a box mix would, but also is better for you and so much yummier!

I’ve made this meal approximately 25 times the last 4 years and every time my kids eat it without complaining. If all of those things are not a win when it comes to a weeknight dinner then I honestly don’t know what is.

This recipe needs to be in your dinner rotations because it’s not only fast but it’s also delicious. Give it a try on a busy night where you normally would eat cold cereal or leftovers because it’s that fast to make!

Looking for other fast weeknight dinner ideas? My Easy Spaghetti Sauce recipe is so quick and way yummier than a sauce from a jar. 20 minute BBQ Sandwiches are my daughter’s favorite! My 1 pot alfredo is something made at least 1 time a month in my house.

Originally posted on 10/28/19. Updated pictures on 1/23/25, slightly updated recipe. Original recipe in recipe notes.

1 Skillet, 20-Minute, Homemade Tuna Helper

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1 skillet. 20 minutes. Includes a green veggie (peas). And the kids will eat it!

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

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4 tablespoons of butter

2 cups uncooked small pasta (I use the mini penne, but most any small pasta should work)

2 cans of tuna in water, drained very well and patted dry

2 cups milk

½ cup cream

1 cup water

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp pepper

½ tsp dry mustard powder

½ tsp paprika

1/4 teaspoon salt plus more to taste

2 cups frozen peas

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a soft gouda is delicious too)

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Instructions

In a large skillet (non-stick works best) melt butter over medium heat and then add the pasta, tuna, milk, cream, water, and seasonings.

Bring to a simmer and stir every few minutes until pasta is cooked to al dente, about 10-15 minutes, depending on the pasta you chose.

Add frozen peas, stir, and allow peas to heat through.

Stir in shredded cheese and allow to melt.

Serve immediately. This will thicken as it cools so don’t worry if it seems a little thin when it’s done.

Notes

Frequently Asked Questions below recipe card.

I almost always use cheddar cheese.

Original recipe called for 2 cups of cheese and no salt and to cook until thickened. If you cook until totally thickend you will have a super soft pasta. I’ve found cooking to al dente and letting it thicken as it cools works a lot better.

Frequently Asked Questions – Homemade Tuna Helper