Creamy Tuna Pasta

Rich, comforting, and effortlessly delicious, this Creamy Tuna Pasta is a quick meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Tender pasta is tossed with flaky tuna, a luscious cream sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a dish that’s simple yet packed with flavor. It’s pantry-friendly, budget-friendly, and comes together in under 30 minutes!

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now for easy comfort food recipes you’ll love cooking and sharing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes.
Creamy & Flavorful – A smooth, velvety sauce with rich tuna.
Pantry Staple Ingredients – Made with items you probably already have.
Perfect for Busy Nights – Simple, satisfying, and hearty.
Customizable – Add veggies, herbs, or spices to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 (5 oz) can tuna in water or oil, drained and flaked
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley or basil for garnish

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup baby spinach or arugula
• ½ cup frozen peas
• Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
• Capers or olives for a briny touch

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Strainer

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Tuna and Cream
Add the drained, flaked tuna to the skillet and stir gently.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Seasonings
Add the parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Toss Pasta with Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley or basil.
Serve warm with extra parmesan if desired.

Tips for Success
Reserve Pasta Water – It’s perfect for loosening the sauce if needed.
Use Good-Quality Tuna – Makes a big difference in flavor.
Don’t Overcook Pasta – Al dente pasta holds up best in the creamy sauce.
Adjust Seasoning – Taste and add more lemon, salt, or pepper as needed.
Serve Immediately – Best when freshly made and creamy.

Serving Suggestions
With Garlic Bread – Perfect for mopping up any extra sauce.
With a Fresh Green Salad – A light, crisp contrast to the creamy pasta.
With Steamed Vegetables – Like broccoli or green beans.
With a Glass of White Wine – Such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing:
Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

Reheating:
Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen.
Microwave: Warm in 30-second intervals, stirring between.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned salmon instead of tuna?
   Yes! Canned salmon is a delicious alternative.
2. Can I make it lighter?
   Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or substitute with a splash of milk and a little extra pasta water.
3. Can I add vegetables?
   Absolutely! Peas, spinach, arugula, or even sautéed mushrooms are great additions.
4. Can I make this gluten-free?
   Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
5. Can I make it spicy?
   Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tuna Pasta is the ultimate easy comfort food—rich, satisfying, and made with simple ingredients you likely have on hand. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a cozy lunch, or a dish to impress without stress, this pasta has you covered!

Cook up a skillet tonight and enjoy a creamy, dreamy meal! Don’t forget to share your pasta creations online!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired / Comfort Food

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – serves 4):
Calories: 460 | Protein: 18g | Carbohydrates: 42g | Fat: 24g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Sodium: 390mg

Print