Creamy Tuna Pesto Pasta

Creamy Tuna Pesto Pasta is a rich, satisfying dish that combines flaky tuna, tender pasta, and a luscious pesto-infused cream sauce. It’s quick to prepare, pantry-friendly, and versatile enough for both weeknight dinners and meal-prepped lunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a perfect combination of creamy and savory flavors with the freshness of basil pesto. It’s a one-pot wonder that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days. Plus, it’s a great way to turn canned tuna into a delicious, upscale meal.

Ingredients

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

• Pasta (spaghetti, linguine, penne, or fusilli)
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Canned tuna in olive oil (drained)
• Pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: heavy cream or pasta water for added creaminess
• Optional: cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, or fresh herbs for garnish

Directions

1. Cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add tuna and stir to combine. Cook for 1–2 minutes until heated through.
4. Reduce heat and add pesto, stirring to mix. If using, add a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce.
5. Toss the drained pasta into the skillet and coat with the sauce.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until well combined.
7. Serve warm, garnished with extra cheese, cherry tomatoes, or herbs if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4–6
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: 20–30 minutes

Variations

• Add spinach, arugula, or cherry tomatoes for a fresh touch.
• Use almond or cashew pesto for a nutty variation.
• Swap tuna with canned salmon or cooked chicken for a different protein.
• Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer, more decadent sauce.
• Serve chilled as a pasta salad with extra veggies and a lemony finish.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. It can also be served cold as a pasta salad.

FAQs

What kind of tuna should I use?

Tuna packed in olive oil provides the best flavor and texture, but tuna in water can be used with added olive oil.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, a high-quality store-bought pesto works great for convenience.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be—just use gluten-free pasta and check that your pesto is gluten-free.

Can I use cream cheese instead of cream?

Yes, a spoonful of cream cheese can make the sauce creamy and tangy.

What vegetables go well in this dish?

Spinach, cherry tomatoes, peas, or zucchini all complement the flavors well.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes—use dairy-free pesto and skip the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast.

Is it good as a cold pasta salad?

Absolutely. Chill the dish and serve with extra veggies and a squeeze of lemon.

Can I freeze this pasta?

Freezing is not recommended as the creamy texture may change upon thawing.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, it keeps well in the fridge and tastes great reheated or served cold.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuna Pesto Pasta is an easy, comforting meal that’s big on flavor and low on effort. Whether you serve it warm and cozy or chilled as a pasta salad, it’s a versatile dish that’s sure to satisfy. Perfect for using pantry staples in a new and delicious way.

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