Description
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!
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Ingredients
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8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
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2 tbsp olive oil or butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small onion, finely diced
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1 (5 oz) can tuna in water or oil, drained and flaked
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1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
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½ cup grated parmesan cheese
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1 tsp lemon zest
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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2 tbsp chopped parsley or basil for garnish
Optional Add-ins:
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1 cup baby spinach or arugula
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½ cup frozen peas
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Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
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Capers or olives for a briny touch
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.
Notes
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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired / Comfort Food