Name: Easy Canned Tuna Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli); 2 cans tuna in olive oil or water, drained; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 cup white wine or pasta water; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste; Juice of 1/2 lemon; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in less than 20 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights
Uses affordable pantry ingredients
Balanced and filling with protein and carbs
Customizable with vegetables, herbs, and sauces
Comforting yet light enough for everyday meals

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work well)
Canned tuna, drained
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Onion, finely chopped
Lemon juice and zest
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Fresh parsley, chopped
Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and black pepper

Directions

Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until softened, then add garlic and cook until fragrant.
Stir in canned tuna, breaking it into chunks. Add lemon juice, zest, and red pepper flakes if using.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss until everything is well combined.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve with fresh parsley and grated parmesan on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 5 minutes, and cooking takes around 12–15 minutes, making the total time under 20 minutes.

Variations

Add cherry tomatoes, spinach, or peas for extra veggies.
Swap lemon juice for capers or olives for a briny flavor.
Use chili oil instead of olive oil for a spicier version.
Replace parmesan with pecorino or feta for a twist.
Make it creamy by stirring in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or water to loosen the pasta. Avoid microwaving for too long, as tuna can dry out.

FAQs

Can I use any type of canned tuna?

Yes, both chunk light and solid albacore work. Tuna packed in olive oil adds extra flavor.

What pasta shape is best for tuna pasta?

Spaghetti and penne are most common, but any pasta shape works.

Can I make this dish creamy?

Yes, add cream, cream cheese, or even Greek yogurt for a creamy version.

Can I use canned salmon instead of tuna?

Absolutely, canned salmon is a great alternative.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta and add more vegetables for fiber and nutrients.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes, it stores well in the fridge and reheats easily.

Can I skip the cheese?

Yes, the recipe is flavorful without cheese, or you can use a dairy-free option.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta.

How do I prevent tuna pasta from being dry?

Reserve pasta water and mix it in when tossing the pasta with the sauce.

Can I serve this cold as a pasta salad?

Yes, toss it with extra olive oil and lemon juice, then chill before serving.

Conclusion

Easy canned tuna pasta is a simple, affordable, and satisfying dish that comes together quickly with pantry staples. It’s versatile, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.