This Easy Creamy Cheesy Tuna Broccoli Pasta is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with tender pasta, flaky tuna, fresh broccoli, and oodles of gooey cheese. Yum!
It’s super quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy nights. I love how the cheesy sauce brings everything together—it’s easy to make, and leftovers are just as tasty! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This shape holds the creamy sauce well. If you prefer, you can substitute with rotini or fusilli for a fun twist. Whole wheat pasta is a great option for more fiber!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds a nice crunch and bright color. If you’re out of fresh, frozen broccoli works just as well—just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water.
Tuna: I like using canned tuna in water for a lighter option. If you prefer, canned salmon or even shredded rotisserie chicken can be used in place of tuna.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great flavor. You can mix it up with Monterey Jack or Gouda, or for a lighter dish, use low-fat cheese options.
How Do I Make a Creamy Cheese Sauce Without Lumps?
Creating a smooth and creamy cheese sauce is all about the roux and whisking technique. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by melting butter and sautéing garlic until fragrant. This adds great flavor.
- When you sprinkle in flour, stir continuously. The roux should bubble lightly, turning golden without burning.
- Gradually add milk while whisking vigorously. This prevents lumps from forming. Keep mixing until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Once thickened, lower the heat and mix in the cheese until melted and smooth.
With these steps, you’ll end up with a perfectly creamy sauce every time!
Easy Creamy Cheesy Tuna Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 1/2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 (5 oz) can tuna in water, drained and flaked
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious pasta dish takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep and around 15 minutes cooking. It’s great for a quick weeknight dinner!
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Once it’s boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. With just 3 minutes left on the pasta timer, toss in the broccoli florets. Drain both the pasta and broccoli together and set them aside in a large bowl.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as garlic can turn bitter.
3. Make the Roux:
Next, sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and garlic. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux—a thick mixture that should turn a light golden color.
4. Create the Cheese Sauce:
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking vigorously to avoid any lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce starts to thicken, which should take about 3-5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
5. Add the Cheeses:
Lower the heat and mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until they are fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
6. Combine Ingredients:
Gently fold in the flaked tuna, cooked pasta, and the broccoli. Make sure everything is well coated with that delicious cheese sauce.
7. Season to Taste:
Season your pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences. Give it a final stir to mix everything together.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy cheesy tuna broccoli pasta hot! Top with extra shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color, if desired. Dig in and enjoy this comforting meal!
FAQ About Easy Creamy Cheesy Tuna Broccoli Pasta
Can I Use Fresh Broccoli Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli florets add great texture and flavor. Just make sure to cook them for about 3 minutes in the boiling pasta water to keep them crisp-tender. If you’re using frozen broccoli, just thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the dish.
What Other Pasta Shapes Can I Use?
You can easily substitute penne with other pasta shapes like fusilli, rotini, or even macaroni. The important thing is to choose a shape that holds the creamy sauce well for the best flavor and texture!
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you reheat, add a splash of milk to restore some creaminess, and warm it up gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can use gluten-free pasta instead of regular penne. Just make sure to check the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta can vary. The rest of the ingredients in the recipe are naturally gluten-free, making this dish easy to adapt!
