Creamy Cheesy Tuna Pasta Salad
This Creamy Cheesy Tuna Pasta Salad is the perfect dish to bring to any potluck or barbecue. Combining tender macaroni with flaky tuna, crisp celery, and fresh green onions, this salad is elevated by the unexpected creaminess of Cheese Whiz. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it a must-try for pasta salad lovers. Chill it for a few hours or overnight to let the flavors meld together, and you’ll have a delightful side dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
N/A
Servings
230
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Macaroni
3 cups (cooked)
Mayonnaise
1 cup (preferably not Miracle Whip)
Tuna
2 (6-ounce) cans (drained)
Green Onion
1/4 cup (diced)
Celery
1/4 cup (diced)
Cheese Whiz
3-4 tablespoons (light version recommended)
Salt
to taste
Pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
Begin by cooking the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced green onion, diced celery, and drained tuna. Gently break up the tuna into smaller pieces using a fork.
3
Once the macaroni has cooled for a few minutes, add it to the bowl with the vegetables and tuna.
4
While the pasta mixture is still warm, add in the Cheese Whiz and mayonnaise. Stir well to ensure everything is mixed thoroughly and evenly coated.
5
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting based on your preference.
6
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though chilling overnight is recommended for the best flavor integration.
7
Serve chilled and enjoy your delightful Creamy Cheesy Tuna Pasta Salad!
Nutrition Information
12g
Fat
22g
Carbs
8g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Cheesy Tuna Pasta Salad?
It is a flavorful side dish that combines tender macaroni, flaky tuna, crisp celery, and green onions with a creamy base of mayonnaise and Cheese Whiz.
What type of pasta is best for this tuna salad?
The recipe specifically calls for 3 cups of macaroni, cooked al dente.
How much tuna is required for the recipe?
You will need two 6-ounce cans of tuna, which should be drained before use.
Can I use Miracle Whip in this recipe?
The recipe recommends using 1 cup of mayonnaise and specifically suggests preferably not using Miracle Whip.
What is the secret ingredient that makes this salad extra creamy?
The addition of 3-4 tablespoons of Cheese Whiz provides an unexpected and delightful creaminess.
Is there a specific version of Cheese Whiz recommended?
The recipe recommends using the light version of Cheese Whiz.
How much celery and green onion should I add?
Use 1/4 cup of diced green onion and 1/4 cup of diced celery for a crisp texture.
At what stage should I add the Cheese Whiz and mayonnaise?
Add the Cheese Whiz and mayonnaise while the pasta mixture is still warm to ensure everything is evenly coated.
How long should the pasta salad chill before serving?
It should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours, though chilling it overnight is recommended for the best flavor integration.
Is this recipe suitable for a potluck or BBQ?
Yes, it is described as the perfect dish to bring to any potluck, barbecue, or summer gathering.
How many calories are in a serving of this salad?
There are approximately 230 calories per serving.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving contains about 8g of protein.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
There are 22g of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the fat content of the recipe?
The recipe contains 12g of fat per serving.
How many ingredients are needed in total?
There are 8 main ingredients: macaroni, mayonnaise, tuna, green onion, celery, Cheese Whiz, salt, and pepper.
How should I prepare the tuna?
Drain the cans and then gently break the tuna into smaller pieces using a fork.
Is this a quick meal to prepare?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick and easy recipe, making it perfect for busy schedules.
Do I need to cook the vegetables?
No, the celery and green onions should be added raw and diced to provide a crisp crunch.
Can I adjust the salt and pepper?
Yes, the recipe suggests seasoning with salt and pepper to taste based on your personal preference.
Should I cover the salad while it's in the fridge?
Yes, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid before refrigerating.
Can I serve this salad warm?
While it is mixed warm, it is intended to be served chilled for the best experience.
What category does this recipe fall into?
This dish is categorized as a side dish, specifically a pasta or tuna salad.
Is this a good dish for summer?
Absolutely, it is specifically tagged as a 'summer dish' and is great for outdoor events.
How do I ensure the macaroni is cooked correctly?
Follow the package instructions and cook until al dente so the pasta holds its shape in the salad.
Does this recipe contain fiber or sugar?
The nutritional data provided lists fiber and sugar as null or not specified.
Is this dish cheesy?
Yes, the inclusion of Cheese Whiz gives it a unique cheesy and creamy profile.
Can I make this a day in advance?
Yes, chilling the salad overnight is actually recommended to let the flavors meld together.
What is the texture of the salad?
It is a combination of creamy dressing, tender pasta, flaky tuna, and crunchy vegetables.
How much Cheese Whiz should I use exactly?
The recipe suggests using between 3 and 4 tablespoons.
What makes this salad a 'must-try'?
The combination of traditional tuna salad ingredients with the unexpected creaminess of Cheese Whiz creates a unique and delicious flavor profile.