Pasta with Canned Tuna Recipe

This easy pasta with canned tuna recipe is a flavorful meal that comes together in about 25 minutes. This version is made with elbow macaroni because that’s what I had on hand however you can use the pasta of your choice. Garlic, parmesan cheese, sun dried tomatoes and a little creole seasoning add incredible flavor to this dish. The Creole seasining adds the perfect amount of flavor without overpowering the tuna and tomatoes. This tuna pasta dish is great for busy weeknights when you need something quick, filling and delicious!

Easy Tuna Pasta Recipe

Canned tuna is an affordable pantry staple that can be used for much more than tuna salad or tuna sandwiches. In this recipe, it is combined with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and pasta to create a satisfying meal with pantry staples and very little effort.

The oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes is also used to cook the garlic and coat the pasta. It adds extra tomato flavor and means that none of that delicious oil goes to waste.

This pasta is not made with a heavy or creamy sauce. Instead, the Parmesan, seasoned oil, and ingredients lightly coat the macaroni, creating a simple pasta dish that is flavorful without feeling too rich.

Ingredients Needed

Elbow macaroni

Elbow macaroni works well because its small shape makes it easy to combine with the pieces of tuna and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.

You can substitute another small pasta shape such as small shells, rotini, penne, or bow tie pasta.

Sun-dried tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes have a concentrated, slightly sweet tomato flavor that pairs perfectly with the tuna and garlic.

Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil so you can reserve some of the flavorful oil for cooking. Chop the tomatoes into small pieces before adding them to the skillet.

Sun-dried tomato oil

Reserve two tablespoons of oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes.

One tablespoon is tossed with the drained macaroni to help prevent it from sticking. The other tablespoon is used to sauté the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic.

Garlic

Fresh minced garlic adds plenty of savory flavor to the pasta. It only needs to cook for about one minute, so stir it frequently and watch it closely to prevent it from burning.

Canned tuna

You will need 12 ounces of canned tuna, drained well.

Tuna packed in water or oil can be used. Make sure to drain it before adding it to the skillet so the finished pasta does not become watery or overly oily.

Creole seasoning

Creole seasoning adds a delicious blend of herbs, spices, and mild heat. Different brands may contain different amounts of salt, so taste the pasta before adding any additional salt.

Parmesan cheese

Shredded Parmesan adds a savory, salty flavor and helps bring all the ingredients together.

Half of the cheese is tossed into the pasta while it is warm, and the remaining cheese is sprinkled over the top before serving.

Dried parsley

Dried parsley adds color and a subtle herby flavor. Fresh chopped parsley can also be used if you have it available.

How to Make Tuna Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and salt the water well.

Add the elbow macaroni and cook it for about eight minutes, or according to the package directions, until it is al dente.

Drain the pasta well and transfer it to a bowl. Toss it with one tablespoon of the reserved sun-dried tomato oil. This adds flavor and helps keep the macaroni from sticking together while you prepare the remaining ingredients.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the remaining tablespoon of sun-dried tomato oil, followed by the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic.

Cook for about one minute, stirring frequently. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.

Add the drained tuna to the skillet. Gently break it into smaller pieces and stir until it is evenly combined with the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic.

Add the cooked macaroni, Creole seasoning, and half of the shredded Parmesan cheese.

Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated and all the ingredients are well combined.

Stir in the dried parsley. Remove the skillet from the heat and serve the pasta with the remaining Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top.

Tips for the Best Tuna Pasta

Salt the pasta water generously. This is your first opportunity to season the macaroni and gives the finished dish more flavor.

Reserve the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes instead of replacing it with plain oil. It contains plenty of concentrated tomato flavor.

Do not cook the garlic for too long. One minute is usually enough to soften it and release its flavor without burning it.

Drain the tuna well before adding it to the skillet. Excess liquid can make the pasta soggy.

Taste the pasta before adding more salt. The Creole seasoning, Parmesan cheese, canned tuna, and sun-dried tomatoes may already contain plenty of sodium.

Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?

Yes. Although elbow macaroni works especially well in this recipe, you can use any short pasta you already have.

Small shells, rotini, bow tie pasta, penne, or rigatoni are all good options. Cooking times will vary, so follow the instructions on the pasta package and cook it until al dente.

Can I Use Tuna Packed in Oil?

Tuna packed in either oil or water will work.

Oil-packed tuna may give the pasta a slightly richer flavor. Drain it well before adding it to the skillet, especially since the recipe already includes oil from the sun-dried tomatoes.

Is Tuna Pasta Spicy?

The level of heat will depend on the brand of Creole seasoning you use. Most Creole seasoning blends add a mild amount of heat along with garlic, herbs, paprika, and other spices.

For less heat, start with ½ teaspoon of Creole seasoning and add more to taste.

For a spicier pasta, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.

Optional Additions

This tuna pasta is delicious as written, but you can easily add other ingredients.

Fresh spinach can be stirred into the skillet shortly before adding the pasta. Cook it just until wilted.

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors and complement the tuna.

You can also add capers, chopped olives, diced onion, fresh basil, or additional Parmesan cheese.

For a creamier version, stir in a small amount of heavy cream or softened cream cheese after adding the tuna.

What to Serve with Tuna Pasta

This tuna pasta can be served on its own as a complete meal. It is also delicious with garlic bread, a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli.

Because the pasta is savory and flavorful, a light vegetable side dish makes a great pairing.

How to Store Leftovers

Allow the tuna pasta to cool before transferring it to an airtight container.

Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Reheat individual servings in the microwave until warmed through. You can add a small drizzle of olive oil or a splash of water before reheating if the pasta seems dry.

Tuna Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

This quick and flavorful tuna pasta is made with elbow macaroni, canned tuna, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, Creole seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. It is an easy pantry meal that is perfect for lunch or a busy weeknight dinner.