Creamy Tuna and Broccoli Penne
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 head broccoli, florets chopped and stalk shredded
- 1 can (5 ounces) tuna, drained
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) broccoli cheddar bacon soup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the chopped broccoli florets and shredded stalk to the pot with the pasta. Cook until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta and broccoli.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat the canned broccoli cheddar bacon soup over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through and smooth.
- Add the drained tuna to the skillet and stir to combine. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the tuna is warmed through.
- Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Sauce:
- Once the pasta and broccoli are cooked, add them to the skillet with the creamy tuna sauce.
- Toss everything together gently, ensuring the pasta and broccoli are well coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out slightly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Divide the creamy tuna and broccoli penne into serving bowls.
- Optionally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious creation!
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of creamy soup with the protein-rich tuna and wholesome broccoli, all tossed together with tender penne pasta. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for trying something new! Good luck, and bon appétit!
Here are some tips to help you make your Creamy Tuna and Broccoli Penne even more delicious:
- Use Good Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe relies on just a few key ingredients, using high-quality ones can make a big difference in flavor. Opt for good-quality canned tuna, a flavorful broccoli cheddar bacon soup, and fresh broccoli.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Be careful not to overcook the broccoli. You want it to be tender but still have a bit of bite to it and retain its vibrant green color. Cooking it for just a few minutes in boiling water should suffice.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining the pasta and broccoli. The starchy water will help to loosen the sauce and bind everything together, creating a creamier texture.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce seems too thick once you’ve combined everything, don’t hesitate to add a splash more of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
- Seasoning: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Depending on the saltiness of your canned tuna and soup, you may need to add a little more salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish: While grated Parmesan cheese is a classic topping for pasta dishes, you can also get creative with other garnishes. Try topping your creamy tuna and broccoli penne with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Experiment: Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients or variations. You could add some sautéed garlic or onions to the sauce for extra flavor, toss in some cherry tomatoes for freshness, or even sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top for added texture.
- Serve Promptly: Creamy pasta dishes are best enjoyed right after they’re prepared while the sauce is still warm and creamy. Serve your Creamy Tuna and Broccoli Penne promptly to enjoy it at its best
