Canned Tuna Pasta: A Quick, Easy, and Delicious Meal

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both quick and comforting, Canned Tuna Pasta is the perfect solution. Combining pantry staples like canned tuna, pasta, and simple seasonings, this dish is incredibly easy to make while being full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a family, this recipe provides a simple, satisfying meal that’s ready in less than 30 minutes.

With its versatility and minimal prep time, Canned Tuna Pasta has become a favorite for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or even last-minute dinners. You can customize the dish with various seasonings, veggies, or even different types of pasta to suit your taste. If you’re looking for more tuna recipes, check out Tuna Pasta Recipes and Quick and Easy Pasta Dishes.

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Canned Tuna Pasta Recipe | Quick, Easy, and Flavorful Meal

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• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Canned Tuna Pasta is a quick, easy, and budget-friendly meal that combines the mild flavors of tuna with pasta and a delicious, creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a simple meal, this dish comes together in less than 30 minutes. The canned tuna adds protein, and the pasta is a satisfying base, making it a great choice for a filling meal without much fuss.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz pasta (any type: spaghetti, penne, fusilli, etc.)
• 1 can (5 oz) canned tuna in oil or water, drained and flaked
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter, for a richer flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (or Italian seasoning)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a fresh kick)
• Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)

For the Optional Add-ins:

• 1/2 cup frozen peas (for added veggies)
• 1 tablespoon capers (for a briny, salty touch)
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• Red pepper flakes (for a little spice)

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Instructions

• Cook the Pasta:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside.

• Prepare the Sauce:

  • While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not burnt.

• Combine Tuna and Pasta:

  • Add the drained canned tuna to the skillet with the garlic. Stir it around for a couple of minutes, allowing it to heat through and slightly crisp up if desired.
  • Pour in the heavy cream (or milk) and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese (if using), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.

• Mix Pasta and Sauce:

  • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
  • Squeeze in the lemon juice, and stir in any optional add-ins (peas, capers, red onion, etc.). Adjust seasoning to taste.

• Serve:

  • Plate the pasta, garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

• Tuna Variations: You can use canned tuna in olive oil or water. Tuna in oil will give the dish a richer flavor, while tuna in water keeps it lighter.
• Customizations: You can add veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini to make it even more nutritious.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based cream (or coconut milk) and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the sauce for some heat.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Dish, Quick Meal
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired, Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 portion
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 47g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Canned Tuna Pasta Recipe

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes).
   • Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Tuna Sauce:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
   • Add the flaked tuna to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the tuna is heated through. Season with oregano, salt, and black pepper.
3. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tuna mixture. If you’d like to add vegetables like peas or spinach, toss them in now.
   • Pour in a bit of the reserved pasta water (start with 1/4 cup) to help create a silky sauce that coats the pasta. Stir everything together.
4. Finish and Serve:
   • Stir in the grated Parmesan (if using) and a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness.
   • Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil. Enjoy your quick and easy Canned Tuna Pasta!

Advanced Techniques

1. Add Extra Veggies

For a more nutritious version, you can incorporate a variety of veggies into your Canned Tuna Pasta. Try adding chopped tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini along with the garlic. Sauté the vegetables in the pan until softened, then mix in the tuna.

2. Make it Creamy

To take your tuna pasta to the next level, add a splash of heavy cream, sour cream, or a few tablespoons of cream cheese to the pan once the tuna is heated through. This will create a rich, creamy sauce that pairs wonderfully with the pasta.

3. Upgrade with Fresh Herbs

While basil and parsley are great, you can elevate the flavor by adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even dill. Dill pairs particularly well with tuna and adds a lovely fresh touch.

4. Make it Spicy

If you love heat, consider stirring in a bit of chili paste, hot sauce, or a chopped fresh chili for a more intense kick. This can balance out the richness of the tuna and create a more dynamic flavor profile.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Canned Tuna Pasta is a great recipe for leftovers. Here’s how to store and maintain its freshness:

Storage

• Refrigeration: Leftover tuna pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Make sure the pasta is fully cooled before storing.
• Freezing: While you can freeze the tuna pasta, the texture of the pasta may change upon reheating. If you choose to freeze it, place the pasta in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating Tips

• Microwave: To reheat, place the leftover pasta in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the pasta is warmed through. Add a bit of olive oil or water to help prevent the pasta from drying out.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or pasta water to bring back the sauce’s creaminess.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

1. Gluten-Free

To make the dish gluten-free, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa. These alternatives will work just as well in this recipe.

2. Dairy-Free

For a dairy-free version, skip the Parmesan and use a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor without the dairy. You can also use a dairy-free sour cream or coconut cream if you’re making a creamy version.

3. Low-Carb/Keto

To make this dish keto-friendly, you can substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Both options are low in carbs but still give you the comforting texture of pasta.

4. Vegan

If you want a vegan version, replace the tuna with chickpeas or another plant-based protein. You can also add roasted vegetables like eggplant or mushrooms for a meaty texture.

FAQs About The Recipe

Can I use canned tuna in oil or water?

Both types of canned tuna work well in this recipe. If you use tuna in oil, you can skip the olive oil when cooking the garlic. Tuna in water will require a little extra olive oil for sautéing, but it’s still delicious.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Yes! This recipe is extremely flexible. You can add vegetables like mushrooms, peas, spinach, or even broccoli. Just sauté them in the pan with the garlic and tuna for extra flavor and nutrition.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta if you’re looking for an alternative.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This Canned Tuna Pasta is great for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat and enjoy!

What other seasonings can I use?

In addition to oregano and red pepper flakes, you can add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, or even a bit of mustard or capers for extra flavor.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Canned Tuna Pasta is a perfect combination of quick, affordable, and delicious. This one-pot meal is easy to make and can be customized to fit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal prep option, this recipe has you covered. It’s rich in protein, full of flavor, and can be made in less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy families or anyone craving a hearty meal in a short amount of time.

So next time you’re in need of a quick dinner, reach for a can of tuna, some pasta, and a few simple ingredients to create this delightful dish. You’ll have a comforting, nutritious meal ready in no time!