Creamy Tuna Pasta is a simple and tasty dish with pasta mixed in a smooth, creamy sauce made from tuna, mayonnaise, and some seasonings. It’s quick to make and perfect for a comforting meal.
I like to add a little lemon juice or fresh herbs for extra flavor. Sometimes I joke that this dish is my go-to when I want a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner.
For an even healthier twist, I toss in some chopped veggies like peas or spinach. It’s easy, cheerful, and always hits the spot!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and smooth. I like to use half-and-half if I want lighter but still creamy pasta. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream works well, adding a similar velvety texture.
Tuna: Canned tuna, preferably in oil, gives the dish its signature flavor. I usually prefer chunk light tuna for a milder taste, but solid white tuna can provide a firmer bite and a slightly subtler flavor.
Pasta: I use penne or any short pasta because they hold sauce nicely. Whole wheat pasta adds fiber, but traditional white pasta is always a good choice for a classic creamy dish.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic boosts flavor. I find 2-3 cloves enough, but you can adjust based on how garlicky you like it. If fresh isn’t available, garlic powder is a quick substitute, just halve the amount.
Cheese: Parmesan cheese adds salty, nutty flavor. For a milder taste, you can use Pecorino. If you don’t have cheese, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can add umami without dairy.
How do I avoid overcooking the pasta and ending up with mush?
Cook pasta in boiling, salted water until just al dente, meaning it’s still slightly firm when bitten. Drain immediately and toss with a bit of oil to prevent sticking. Finish cooking in the sauce to prevent over-softening.
- Start timing once the water reaches a rolling boil, not before.
- Check pasta a minute before the package’s suggested time; it should have a slight bite.
- Drain quickly and add to the sauce right away for final cooking. This helps it absorb flavors and stay firm.
How to Make Creamy Tuna Pasta?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces of pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water or oil, drained
- 1 cup of heavy cream or sour cream
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- Optional: chopped parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 10 minutes. Cooking: 15 minutes. Total time: 25 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the sauce
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Add tuna and cheese
Stir in drained tuna and grated Parmesan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine pasta and sauce
Add cooked pasta to the pan. Toss well to coat all the noodles with the sauce. Cook for another minute to heat through.
5. Serve
Transfer to plates. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy tuna pasta.
