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One-Pan Creamy Tuna Pasta Skillet

Close-up of creamy, cheesy tuna pasta with bright green peas served directly in a black skillet.
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Make this comforting, creamy tuna pasta in one skillet for a quick weeknight dinner using simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

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  • 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 10 oz frozen peas and carrots mix
  • 2 (5 oz) cans tuna in water, drained
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots mix. Cook for 3 minutes until they begin to thaw.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, milk, heavy cream, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
  6. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
  7. Stir in the drained tuna and the cooked pasta. Mix well to combine everything.
  8. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  10. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, substitute half of the chicken broth with dry white wine and let it cook down before adding the milk.
  • If you prefer a baked version, transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, top with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until golden.
  • This recipe is budget friendly because it relies on canned tuna and pantry staples.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastethisplate.com/tuna-pasta-skillet-creamy-dinner-recipe/