Easy Tuna Pasta Recipe (25-Minutes)
This easy tuna pasta is a quick, flavorful, and budget-friendly dish that comes together in just 25 minutes.Made with pantry staples like pasta, canned tuna, garlic, tomatoes, and herbs, it delivers a satisfying and nutritious meal perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients:
- 12 ounces pasta spaghetti, penne, or fusilli
- 2 cans 5 ounces each tuna, drained (oil-packed or water-packed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes, halved)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for spice
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup pasta water reserved from cooking the pasta
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or basil chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
- Juice of ½ lemon for freshness
Optional Add-Ins:
- ¼ cup olives sliced
- 1 tablespoon capers
- ½ cup spinach or arugula
- 2 tablespoons cream or cream cheese for a creamy version
Instructions
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 and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion (if using) and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and chili flakes (if using for spice), cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook the Sauce
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes).
- Add the capers or olives (if using for a Mediterranean touch).
- Season with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Incorporate the Tuna and Add-Ins
- Drain the canned tuna and gently stir it into the sauce.
- If using spinach or arugula, add it now and stir until wilted.
- If making a creamy version, stir in heavy cream or cream cheese at this stage.
- Let everything cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Combine with Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese if using.
Garnish and Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Top with fresh basil, parsley, or lemon zest for added freshness.
- Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.