Creamy Broccoli Tuna Helper

Anthony Rose

9/1/2025, 2:51:17 PM

Let’s build you a copycat *Tuna Helper Creamy Broccoli* that’s Dutch oven–friendly. I’ll make it flexible so you can adjust richness, creaminess, or broccoli power depending on your mood. --- ## Copycat Creamy Broccoli Tuna Helper (Dutch Oven) ### Ingredients - 2 cups dry pasta (elbow macaroni, small shells, or egg noodles all work) - 2 cans tuna in water, drained - 1 cup small broccoli florets (fresh or frozen; optional but adds authenticity) - 2 cups milk (whole or 2% is best for creaminess) - 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth (or just more milk if you want it richer) - 2 tablespoons butter or margarine - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, gives a subtle tang) - 1 teaspoon dried parsley - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste) - 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Parmesan) - Pinch of nutmeg (optional, but it brightens creamy sauces) --- ### Instructions (Stovetop Dutch Oven) 1. **Cook the pasta** - In your Dutch oven, boil the pasta in salted water until just al dente. If using fresh broccoli florets, toss them in during the last 2–3 minutes. - Drain and set aside. 2. **Make the sauce** - In the empty Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. - Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until it smells slightly nutty (this is your roux). - Slowly whisk in the milk and broth until smooth and thickened (about 4–5 minutes). 3. **Season it up** - Stir in onion powder, garlic powder, mustard powder, parsley, pepper, and salt. - Add the cheese and stir until melted. Taste and adjust seasonings. 4. **Bring it all together** - Fold the drained pasta, broccoli, and tuna into the sauce. - Let it simmer on low for 3–4 minutes, stirring gently, until everything is heated through and creamy. --- ### Notes - If you want it **extra nostalgic**, keep the broccoli subtle—like just enough to tint the sauce greenish, not a full veggie side dish. - For a **richer “boxed flavor” vibe**, add 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder when you add seasonings. - If you’re into a **baked casserole twist**, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with a little butter on top and slide the Dutch oven (uncovered) under the broiler for 3–4 minutes. ---

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