Canned Tuna Just Got an Upgrade – 12 Must-Try Pasta Recipes

ByViolet ParkerEditorial Policy

Canned tuna is the ultimate pantry MVP—affordable, packed with protein, and so wonderfully versatile. And when it’s paired with pasta, you get a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that feels way fancier than it actually is.

Whether you’re craving a rich, creamy sauce, a bright tomato-based dish, or a refreshing pasta salad, this collection has something you’ll love. I spent my college years eating a lot of tuna pasta, and I know firsthand that it can sometimes be an uninspiring combo. But with a little creativity and some fresh ideas, it can also be absolutely delicious.

These 12 tuna pasta recipes come together in 20 minutes or less, making them perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or when you just need to throw something delicious together with minimal effort.

From comforting Alfredo to zesty Mediterranean bowls and even a tuna-studded take on street corn pasta (one of my current favorites!), these recipes prove that canned tuna is anything but boring. Let’s get straight down to it… 

1. Creamy Tomato Spinach & Tuna Pasta

creamy tomato spinach tuna pasta

This Creamy Tomato Spinach & Tuna Pasta is the perfect comfort-meets-nutrition meal. It’s packed with flaky tuna, a rich and velvety tomato sauce, and fresh spinach for a dish that’s creamy, satisfying, and packed with protein. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s a great option for busy weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you need a cozy yet wholesome pasta fix. It’s also a great way to sneak extra veggies into your dinners!

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or half & half for a lighter version)
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 (5 oz) can tuna, drained
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

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 ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce

  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
  • Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Add the Tuna & Spinach

  • Stir in the heavy cream and mix until fully combined.
  • Add the tuna and spinach, letting the spinach wilt into the sauce.
  • If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

4. Toss & Serve

  • Add the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated in the sauce.
  • Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix well.
  • Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

2. Pesto & Tuna Gnocchi Salad

pesto and tuna gnocchi salad

If you love pasta salad but want something a little more creative, this one is the upgrade you didn’t know you needed! Soft, pillowy gnocchi replaces traditional pasta, giving the dish a satisfying, hearty texture while still keeping it light and fresh. Tossed with herby pesto, canned tuna, and juicy cherry tomatoes, this dish is delicious served warm or cold—making it a perfect meal-prep option, easy lunch, or summer dinner.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb potato gnocchi
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 (5 oz) can tuna, drained
  • ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely sliced
  • ¼ cup shaved Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: ¼ cup toasted pine nuts for crunch

Instructions:

1. Cook the Gnocchi

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions (usually 2-3 minutes) until they float to the top.
  • Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Assemble the Salad

  • In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked gnocchi with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  • Add the tuna, pesto, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh basil.
  • Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

3. Finish & Serve

  • Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
  • Sprinkle with shaved Parmesan and toasted pine nuts (if using).
  • Serve immediately, or chill in the fridge for a cold pasta salad-style dish.

3. Greek Tuna Orzo Salad

greek tuna orzo salad

I created this one because I absolutely love Greek salad, and I wanted to give it a high protein boost alongside pasta for extra satisfaction! Tender orzo pasta meets flaky tuna, crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and briny olives, all tossed in a bright lemon-oregano dressing. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for meal prep, summer lunches, or an easy Mediterranean-inspired dinner.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 (5 oz) can tuna, drained
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup cucumber, diced
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
  • ¼ cup kalamata olives, sliced
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing:

  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Orzo

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions, until al dente.
  • Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Make the Dressing

  • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

3. Assemble the Salad

  • In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta, and parsley.
  • Pour the lemon-oregano dressing over the salad and toss to coat.

4. Serve & Enjoy

  • Serve immediately, or chill for 30 minutes for even better flavor.
  • Enjoy on its own or serve with pita bread and hummus for a complete meal.

4. Avocado & Tuna Creamy Pasta

avocado creamy tuna pasta

Creamy, luscious, and packed with flavor, this Avocado & Tuna Creamy Pasta is like a cross between tuna salad and guacamole—except even better! The avocado-based sauce is rich and silky without being heavy, and it’s bright, satisfying, and ridiculously easy to make. Perfect for a quick lunch, light dinner, or meal prep!

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz pasta (fusilli, penne, or spaghetti)
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 1 (5 oz) can tuna, drained
  • ¼ cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  • Drain and set aside, reserving ¼ cup pasta water for the sauce if needed.

2. Make the Avocado Sauce

  • In a food processor or mixing bowl, blend the avocado, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
  • If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

3. Assemble the Pasta

  • In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the avocado sauce until fully coated.
  • Gently fold in the tuna, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil or parsley.

4. Serve & Enjoy

  • Divide into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan (if using).
  • Serve immediately and enjoy creamy, protein-packed pasta goodness!

5. Lemon Garlic Tuna Pasta

lemon garlic tuna pasta

Bright, zesty, and packed with garlicky goodness, this one is the ultimate quick and flavorful meal. It’s one of my go-to dinners for those nights when I want something super easy and I don’t feel like a trip to the grocery store to pick up any extra ingredients – it’s made using staples that you’ll likely already have in your kitchen, and it’s surprisingly elegant for a dish that’s so simple to make. 

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (5 oz) can tuna, drained
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • ¼ cup chopped parsley
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional)

Instructions:

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 pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Garlic & Tuna

  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Stir in tuna and red pepper flakes (if using), breaking up the tuna with a spoon.

3. Toss Everything Together

  • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with lemon juice, lemon zest, and parsley.
  • Pour in a little reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
  • Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

4. Serve & Enjoy

  • Divide into bowls and top with grated Parmesan (if using).
  • Serve immediately for a light, fresh, and flavorful meal!

6. Spicy Tuna & Tomato Pasta

spicy tuna and tomato pasta

For those who love a little heat in their pasta! This one is super quick and easy, and of course you can customize the heat levels so it’s exactly to your taste. I like it extra spicy so I’m heavy handed with the red pepper flakes!

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, rigatoni, or penne)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (5 oz) can tuna, drained
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ cup pasta water (reserved)
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

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 ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Make the Spicy Tomato Sauce

  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
  • Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavor.

3. Add the Tuna & Combine

  • Stir in the tuna, breaking it up with a spoon.
  • Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
  • If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

4. Serve & Enjoy

  • Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan (if using).
  • Serve immediately and enjoy the bold, spicy, and comforting flavors!

7. Creamy Tuna & Mushroom Pasta

creamy tuna mushroom pasta

If you’re looking for comfort food in a bowl, this Creamy Tuna & Mushroom Pasta delivers in every way. It’s the perfect quick and hearty meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make. I love the earthy flavor that the mushrooms bring to this dish!

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or rotini)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (5 oz) can tuna, drained
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup milk
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

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 ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Mushrooms & Garlic

  • In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and softened.
  • Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

  • Reduce heat to low and stir in the tuna, salt, black pepper, and thyme.
  • Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring well.
  • Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

4. Toss & Serve

  • Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat.
  • If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

8. Mexican Street Corn & Tuna Pasta

mexican street corn tuna pasta

Tuna and sweetcorn is a classic combination, and I set about giving it a Mexican inspired upgrade when I created this recipe! With a kick of heat, charred corn kernels, and vibrant flavors lime lime and cilantro, it’s a super flavorsome dish that’s perfect for when you’re in the mood for trying something a little creative. 

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1½ cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • 1 (5 oz) can tuna, drained
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • ¼ tsp smoked paprika
  • ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional, for heat)
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  • Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.

2. Char the Corn

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add corn and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly charred.
  • Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Make the Creamy Dressing

  • In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

4. Assemble the Pasta

  • Add the cooked pasta, charred corn, tuna, crumbled cotija cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using) to the dressing.
  • Toss everything together until well coated.

5. Serve & Enjoy

  • Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with extra cotija cheese and a sprinkle of chili powder.
  • Serve immediately, or chill for 30 minutes for a refreshing cold pasta salad.

9. Tuna Spaghetti Alfredo

tuna alfredo spaghetti

This Tuna Spaghetti Alfredo is the creamy, cheesy, and comforting pasta dish you didn’t know you needed. Perfect for a quick dinner, an easy weeknight meal, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 (5 oz) can tuna, drained
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional, for depth)
  • ¼ cup pasta water (reserved)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Spaghetti

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
  • Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Make the Alfredo Sauce

  • In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
  • Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

3. Add the Tuna & Pasta

  • Stir in the tuna, breaking it up gently into the sauce.
  • Add the cooked spaghetti and toss until evenly coated.
  • If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

4. Serve & Enjoy

  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
  • Pair with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

10. Creamy Cheesy Tuna Broccoli Pasta

cheesy tuna broccoli pasta

If you’re looking for comfort food that also sneaks in some greens, this Creamy Cheesy Tuna Broccoli Pasta is a must-try! I love how easy it is, and I find it’s always popular with kids too. 

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1½ cups milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or more milk for a lighter version)
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 (5 oz) can tuna, drained
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp paprika (optional, for depth)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta & Broccoli

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  • In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli to the boiling water.
  • Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheesy Sauce

  • In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.
  • Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
  • Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until slightly thickened.
  • Stir in cheddar cheese, Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using).

3. Combine Everything

  • Add the drained pasta, broccoli, and tuna to the sauce.
  • Stir gently until everything is well coated and heated through.

4. Serve & Enjoy

  • Transfer to bowls and serve immediately.
  • Garnish with extra cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

11. Tuna Caesar Pasta Salad

tuna caesar pasta salad

If you love a classic Caesar salad, you need to try this twist! It’s light yet satisfying, making it perfect for a quick lunch or even a no-fuss summer dinner.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz short pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie)
  • 1 (5 oz) can tuna, drained
  • 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup croutons (optional, but good for extra crunch!) 
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Dressing:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1-2 tbsp water (to thin if needed)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  • Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.

2. Make the Caesar Dressing

  • In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, Parmesan, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.
  • Add water as needed to thin the dressing to your desired consistency.

3. Assemble the Salad

  • In a large bowl, combine pasta, tuna, romaine, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Parmesan, and croutons.
  • Drizzle with the Caesar dressing and toss to coat evenly.

4. Serve & Enjoy

  • Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley (if using).
  • Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for even better flavor.

12. Mediterranean Tuna Pasta Salad

med tuna pasta salad

Packed with bright, fresh Mediterranean flavors, this Mediterranean Tuna Pasta Salad is a light yet satisfying meal with a beautiful (but easy!) homemade dressing. Perfect for summer nights and when you need a little taste of sunshine. 

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz short pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle)
  • 1 (5 oz) can tuna, drained
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup cucumber, diced
  • ¼ cup kalamata olives, sliced
  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing:

  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  • Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.

2. Make the Dressing

  • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

3. Assemble the Salad

  • In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, feta, and parsley.
  • Pour the lemon-herb dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.

4. Serve & Enjoy

  • Serve immediately, or chill for 30 minutes for even better flavor.
  • Pair with pita bread or hummus, if you like.

Who knew canned tuna and pasta could be the ultimate quick, easy, and budget-friendly meal combo? Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy and comforting, light and zesty, or packed with bold flavors, these 12 tuna pasta recipes prove that simple ingredients can create seriously delicious meals.

Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or no-fuss family dinners, these dishes will make you look forward to that can of tuna sitting in your pantry. Give them a try, and let me know which one you loved most!

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