Tuna helper is a popular boxed pasta meal that many of us grew up eating. It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tuna – basically mac and cheese with a tuna twist! The problem is, traditional tuna helper relies on milk to create its signature creamy sauce. So what do you do if you don’t have milk on hand or want a dairy-free tuna pasta? Luckily, there are plenty of milk substitutes that can be used to make tuna helper!
In this article I’ll walk you through how to make tuna helper without regular milk. Whether you avoid dairy, want to use up what’s already in your pantry or just feel like changing things up, these tips will help you recreate the creamy comfort food you love using alternative ingredients. Read on for the complete step-by-step guide!
How to Choose a Milk Substitute for Tuna Helper
When deciding what to use in place of milk for tuna helper, look for an ingredient that will mimic milk’s creaminess and texture. Here are some of the best options:
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Coconut milk – Full-fat coconut milk adds luxurious richness similar to heavy cream. It provides a subtle coconut flavor that works well with the spices in tuna helper.
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Almond milk – With its mild flavor and creamy texture, unsweetened almond milk can typically be substituted 1:1 for regular milk. Shake cans well before using.
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Soy milk – Like almond milk, soy milk has a creamy consistency that makes it a great milk replacement. Opt for unsweetened
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Oat milk – Naturally creamy oat milk has a mild oaty taste that pairs well with cheesy tuna helper Use full-fat oat milk for best results
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Cashew cream – Blended raw cashews create a luscious cream perfect for making dairy-free sauces. Add a little nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
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Vegetable broth – Chicken, mushroom or vegetable broth adds moisture and richness without the milk. Boost flavor with herbs.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different plant-based milks and creams to find your favorite! You may also combine milks, such as almond and coconut, for added creaminess.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Once you’ve chosen your milk substitute, follow these simple steps for tuna helper without regular milk:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Prepare the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Any short pasta shape works well, like elbow macaroni or rotini.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the milk substitute with the tuna helper seasoning packet and whisk well. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently. If using broth only, add 1-2 tbsp olive oil or cashew cream for extra richness.
For coconut milk – simmer the coconut milk and seasoning packet for 2-3 minutes.
For nut or grain milk – whisk together the milk and 1-2 tbsp cornstarch or flour before heating to help thicken.
For cashew cream – blend 1/2 cup cashews with 1/2 cup water then use in place of milk.
Step 3: Add Tuna and Cheese
Once simmering, stir in the tuna, breaking it up with a fork. Add shredded cheddar a handful at a time, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Turn off heat.
Step 4: Mix in Pasta
Add the cooked, drained pasta to the tuna sauce. Stir well until the pasta is fully coated. Add a splash more milk substitute if needed to reach desired creaminess.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Season to taste with extra salt, pepper, herbs or spice blend. Serve tuna helper warm, garnished with parsley. Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days.
And that’s it! With just a simple plant-based milk swapped in, you can enjoy tuna helper without regular dairy milk. Play around with different mix-ins like peas, corn, or spinach to make it your own.
More Tips for the Best Results
Follow these tips for creamy, flavorful tuna helper every time:
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For added richness, stir in mayo or cream cheese after heating.
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Boost flavor with garlic, onion, paprika, chili powder or cumin.
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Use low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth as part of the liquid.
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Top with sharp cheddar or Parmesan cheese for extra cheesy flavor.
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For a spicier dish, add hot sauce, chili garlic sauce or red pepper flakes.
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Mix in vegetables like carrots, broccoli, mushrooms or zucchini.
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Make it even easier by using a rice and pasta blend instead of regular pasta.
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Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, basil, dill or chives.
Can I make Tuna Helper without milk?
FAQ
Can I use water instead of milk in tuna helper?
What can I use instead of milk in Hamburger Helper?
Can you make tuna helper without butter?
Can you use evaporated milk instead of milk in tuna helper?
What is homemade Tuna Helper?
Homemade Tuna Helper is so much better than the boxed stuff! Plus, it’s super quick and easy to make with a handful of simple ingredients that you might already have on hand. Tender bites of shell pasta are nestled into the best creamy, cheesy sauce with plenty of tuna!
What are the benefits of tinned tuna?
Food is considered a good source of protein and unsaturated fats, such as omega-3, in addition to iron and zinc. Omega-3 is an essential fat for the proper functioning of the body. It helps, for example, to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels and to control blood sugar. Omega-3 is still a powerful ally in brain cell renewal, that is, it helps in the fight against degenerative diseases and even in memory. The best option is to preserve it in water, as it concentrates a greater amount of nutrients from the fish, such as omega-3 itself, and does not have soy oil added.
How do you make cheesy Tuna Helper without gluten?
Here’s how to make Cheesy Tuna Helper with or without the gluten free option: In a large skillet with a lid melt 1 tablespoon butter and add 1/2 an onion diced. Sauté until onion starts to turn brown and caramelize. This incorporates a lot of flavor into the pasta. Add to pan: 7 ounces Canned Tuna in water drained. Mix until well combined. Add:
How do you cook Tuna Helper?
On the stove or in the oven, Tuna Helper® is a great meal for kids and the family. It also makes a great dish for a picnic, potluck dinner or portioned out for lunches. Put the heat on medium to high heat. Put the butter in the saucepan for it to melt. Pour the pasta noodles and seasoning package into the pan.