Dollar Store Tuna Pasta Skillet Budget Dinner Recipe

• elbow macaroni or small pasta8 oz
• vegetable oil or olive oil1 tablespoon
• garlic powder1 teaspoon
• Italian seasoning1 teaspoon
• black pepper1/4 teaspoon
• kosher salt, plus more for pasta water1/2 teaspoon
• tomato sauce1 can, 15 oz
• diced tomatoes, undrained1 can, 14.5 oz
• tuna in water, drained and flaked2 cans, 5 oz each
• peas and carrots, drained1 can, 15 oz
• reserved pasta cooking water1/4 cup
• crushed crackers or seasoned breadcrumbs, optional2 tablespoons

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the pasta, and cook until just barely tender, about 1 minute less than the package directions.

2. 2

   Scoop out 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain the pasta well. Do not rinse it, because the starch helps the sauce cling.

3. 3

   Set the pot back over medium heat and add the oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt. Stir for 30 seconds to wake up the spices.

4. 4

   Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes with their juices. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce looks slightly thicker.

5. 5

   Fold in the drained tuna and peas and carrots. Break up large tuna pieces gently so the fish stays flaky rather than mushy.

6. 6

   Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water. Toss for 2 to 3 minutes, until the noodles are glossy and evenly coated.

7. 7

   Taste and adjust with a pinch of salt or pepper. Sprinkle with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs if you want a crunchy pantry topping.