30 Best Canned Tuna Pasta Recipes

Canned tuna pasta recipes are always a hit.

Canned tuna is a versatile seafood that can be used in a variety of pasta dishes.

Turn canned tuna and pasta into perfect for weeknight meals that are quick and affordable.

Looking for more canned seafood ideas? Try 30 Best Canned Salmon Pasta Recipes next!

Canned Tuna Pasta Recipes

Want something extra comforting and easy for dinner?

Here are 30 of the best canned tuna pasta recipes to try!

1. Garlic and Lemon Canned Tuna Spaghetti

I always keep canned tuna in my pantry for when it’s hard to decide what to eat! It’s a satisfying and easy meal.

This quick and tasty pasta dish is made with everyday ingredients.

It’s ready in about 20 minutes, and you can change the recipe to your liking by adding or subtracting certain ingredients.

2. Canned Tuna Penne Alfredo Casserole

This canned tuna fettuccine Alfredo is a creamy and delicious pasta dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal.

The canned tuna provides a boost of protein and healthy omega-3 fatty acids, while the fettuccine Alfredo is rich and creamy.

This dish can be on the table in just 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

3. Lemon-Butter Tuna Pasta

This elegant lemon-buttered noodles turns into something hearty when you add baked tuna and a cream sauce.

Simply substitute the canned salmon in the recipe for canned tuna.

This hearty tuna pasta meal comes together in a flash!

Related: 10 Sauces for Seared Ahi Tuna (Easy Recipes) 

4. Cheesy Canned Tuna Noodle Casserole

“The cheese limit does not exist!”

This canned tuna pasta recipe proves it’s the best fish in the sea.

You can use any type of pasta for this recipe, but I prefer to use whole wheat or high-protein pasta.

This dish is also very versatile – you can add vegetables, such as spinach or broccoli, to make it even healthier.

5. Green Canned Tuna Pasta Salad

Eat more veggies with this healthy pasta and canned tuna recipe.

This hearty, one-skillet meal is full of protein, veggies, and healthy fats.

Add broccoli and spinach or any other greens you have on hand.

6. Canned Tuna Pasta Casserole Recipe

A quick trip under the broiler gives this pasta bake a melty Parmesan. A little pasta, a little canned tuna. Let the oven do all the work. Perfect canned tuna casserole, every single time. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal!

Ingredients

• 1 can (10 oz.) cream of celery soup
• 1/2 cup fat-free milk
• 2 cups yolk-free noodles, cooked
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1 can (5 oz.) water-packed tuna
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 2 tablespoons dry bread crumbs
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

Instructions

• In a large bowl, combine soup and milk until smooth. Add the noodles, peas, tuna, and tomatoes; mix well.
• Pour into a 1-1/2-qt. baking dish coated with cooking spray. Bake, uncovered, at 400° for 25 minutes. Toss bread crumbs and butter; sprinkle over the top. Bake 5 minutes longer or until golden brown.

7. Canned Tuna Chowder with Elbow Macaroni Recipe

Chow down. You can’t help but fill up on this creamy, cheesy tuna chowder.

Pretend you’re on Cape Cod, wherever you are.

On the table in 30 minutes or less.

Ingredients

• 2 cups chopped cauliflower
• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 1 tablespoon water
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 celery ribs, thinly sliced
• 8 green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dill weed
• 4 cups 2% milk
• 1 can (14-3/4 ounces) tuna, drained, skin and bones removed
• 1 package (9 ounces) frozen peas, thawed
• 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine cauliflower and water. Microwave, covered, on high for 4-5 minutes or until tender, stirring once.
2. In a large saucepan, heat butter over medium-high heat. Add celery and green onions; cook and stir until tender. Stir in flour, salt and dill until blended; gradually whisk in milk. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly; cook and stir 2 minutes or until thickened.
3. In a medium sized pot, separately cook elbow macaroni in water until tender for 15-20 minutes. Then drain water.
4. Stir in tuna, peas and cauliflower; heat through. Stir in cheeses until melted. Serve immediately.

8. Canned Tuna Alfredo Casserole Recipe

Tuna casserole is the ultimate in comfort food—but when it’s made with tuna and updated with some pesto and fancy pasta, it’s also fun to make (and eat)!

Not including the salt for the pasta water or the cooking spray (these are really pantry items), this five-ingredient tuna Alfredo casserole recipe is perfect for dinner on a busy weeknight.

Let the oven do all the work.

Ingredients

• Kosher salt
• 3 cups mafalda, mostaccioli, or penne pasta
• 1 (10-ounce) container refrigerated cheese or Alfredo sauce
• 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade basil pesto
• 12 ounces canned tuna, drained and chopped
• Cooking spray
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400 F. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. 
2. Cook the pasta according to directions, taking one minute off the cooking time. When the pasta is almost al dente, drain well.
3. Meanwhile, combine Alfredo sauce and the pesto in a medium bowl and mix to combine. Add the cooked pasta and tuna, mixing gently.
4. Pour the tuna mixture into a greased 2-quart glass baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until cheese is melted and casserole is hot.

Dive in.

9. Canned Tuna Tortellini Gratin Recipe

Tortellini at its finest. Canned tuna dinner has never been easier!

If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal that’s packed with flavor, this tortellini canned tuna pasta recipe is a great option. You can add additional vegetables to the dish if you’d like, such as peas or spinach. If you’re looking for an even creamier sauce, you could try adding mozzarella cheese.

Ingredients

• 1(9-oz.) pkg. refrigerated cheese-filled tortellini
• 1 1/2cups frozen broccoli florets, large pieces cut up
• 1(10-oz.) container refrigerated light Alfredo sauce
• 1(5-oz.) can water-packed tuna, drained, flaked
• 1tablespoon butter, melted
• 1/4cup Progresso™ Italian Style Bread Crumbs

Instructions

1. Cook tortellini to desired doneness as directed on package, adding broccoli during last 4 minutes of cooking time. Drain; return to saucepan.
2. Add Alfredo sauce and tuna; mix well. Cook and stir over medium heat until thoroughly heated. Spoon into ungreased shallow 1-quart casserole or gratin dish. In small bowl, combine butter and crumbs; mix well. Sprinkle over top.
3. Broil 4 to 6 inches from heat for 1 to 2 minutes or until topping is golden brown.

The best way to eat tuna.

10. Canned Tuna Macaroni Salad

Tuna Macaroni Salad is economical and feeds many.

This classic pasta salad idea really is an entire meal in one!

Canned tuna (or salmon) pasta is a no-brainer weeknight win.

Chow down!

11. Spicy Canned Tuna Spaghetti Recipe

This spicy canned tuna spaghetti recipe is a healthy and easy weeknight meal the whole family will love!

Made with just a few simple ingredients, this dish comes together in less than 30 minutes and is packed with protein and flavor.

And the best part? It’s all made in one pot!

12. Easy Zesty Canned Tuna Pasta

This delicious, creamy lemon canned tuna pasta recipe is an easy and healthy weeknight meal the whole family will love!

Made with just a few simple ingredients, this pasta dish is packed with protein and flavor.

Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes!

13. Spicy Canned Tuna Pasta Bake

This salad is a fun, easy and healthy way to enjoy canned tuna!

The combination of Sriracha and canned tuna gives this dish a nice zing, while the fusilli provides some texture and heartiness.

This salad can be served as a main course or as a side dish.

14. Cheesy Canned Tuna Lasagna

This canned tuna lasagna recipe is a delicious, easy, and budget-friendly meal that the whole family will love!

It’s made with just a few simple ingredients, and it can be on the table in less than an hour.

Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner option or something to take to a potluck, this lasagna is sure to please.

There are a few variations to this recipe that you can try. If you want a lighter version of this dish, you could use cottage cheese in place of the ricotta cheese.

If you’re looking for a bit more of a flavor punch, you could add some sun-dried tomatoes to the dish.

15. Easy Canned Tuna Pasta

Getting your omega-3s just got easier.

The secret to this recipe is using canned tuna. If you haven’t experimented with canned tuna and creamy pasta yet, get ready.

This recipe is much easier than cooking tuna filet—and cheaper to shop for. 

Plus kids love it!

16. Sicilian-Style Canned Tuna Lasagna

A twist on tuna lasagna. This’ll be your new go-to.

17. Canned Tuna Garlic Linguine

Garlic and linguine are a dream team. This garlic-seasoned recipe calls for handy pantry ingredients, including pasta and canned tuna. Serve it with asparagus.

Dinner’s ready table in 20 minutes or less.

Ingredients

• 1 package (16 ounces) linguine
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14-3/4 ounces) tuna, drained, bones and skin removed
• 3/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Directions

1. Cook linguine according to package directions; drain.
2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic; cook and stir 1 minute. Stir in remaining ingredients; heat through. Add linguine; toss gently to combine.

This quick and easy canned tuna recipe is a weeknight dinner winner! It’s a budget-friendly meal that the whole family will love! If you’re looking for an easy tuna pasta recipe, this is the one for you! Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s ready in about 30 minutes.

18. Canned Tuna Pasta Bake

This canned tuna pasta casserole recipe is a delicious and easy way to get your seafood fix.

The dish comes together quickly, and the canned tuna makes it a budget-friendly option.

Plus, the cheesy topping adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish.

Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or want to impress your dinner guests, this recipe is sure to please.

19. Creamy Tuna Stuffed Shells Recipe

Dinner has never been easier! This creamy canned tuna pasta recipe is a perfect midweek meal that is easy to make and full of flavor. This dish can be on the table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

• 24 uncooked jumbo pasta shells
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped green pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped red onion
• 1 teaspoon plus 1/4 cup butter, divided
• 2 cans (6 ounces each) tuna, drained
• 1 package (5 ounces) frozen cooked salad shrimp, thawed
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons plus 4 cups 2% milk, divided
• 1-1/2 teaspoons seafood seasoning, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
• 1-1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions.
2. Meanwhile, in a small skillet, saute green pepper and onion in 1 teaspoon butter until tender; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine tuna, shrimp, egg, mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons milk, 1 teaspoon seafood seasoning, pepper and green pepper mixture.
4. Preheat oven to 350°. Drain and rinse pasta; stuff each shell with 1 rounded tablespoon of seafood mixture. Place in a greased 13×9-in. baking dish.
5. In a small saucepan, melt remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and coarsely ground pepper; gradually whisk in remaining milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir 2 minutes or until thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese.
6. Pour over stuffed shells. Sprinkle with remaining seafood seasoning. Bake, uncovered, 30-35 minutes or until bubbly.

This recipe is a fun and easy way to take your ordinary canned tuna to the next level. This dish can be enjoyed as a main course or a side.

20. Kale & Canned Tuna Caesar Salad Recipe

A canned tuna salad so flavorful and satisfying you’ll forget it all started with lettuce.

The combination of tuna, bacon, and avocado is unbelievable and the homemade creamy dressing completes the whole dish! Chicken cesars are over.

Ingredients

• 8 oz bowtie pasta 
• 6 oz chopped kale
• 14 oz can tuna
• 2 large hard boiled eggs (optional)
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan
• 1/2 cup (or to taste) creamy Caesar dressing

Instructions

1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package directions, then drain in a colander.
2. Meanwhile, roughly chop the kale into small pieces, removing any large pieces of stem. Place the chopped kale in a bowl. Once the pasta is drained, add it to the kale and stir to let the residual heat slightly wilt the kale.
3. Drain the canned tuna and remove the skin and bones (if included), breaking the meat into bite-sized chunks as you go. Peel and dice the hard boiled eggs.
4. Add the tuna chunks, diced hard boiled eggs, and shredded Parmesan to the kale and pasta. Drizzle with Caesar dressing, then toss to coat everything in the dressing. Divide into four portions for meal-sized salads, or six smaller side-salad servings.

This delicious, canned tuna salad recipe is an easy and healthy weeknight meal the whole family will love! Made with just a few simple ingredients, this pasta dish is packed with protein and flavor. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes!

21. Canned Tuna Noodle Casserole

A quick and easy casserole that anyone can make.

Takes less than 40 minutes so it’s perfect for any weeknight.

It’s also very customizable if your kids don’t like green peppers, you could use frozen peas instead.

22. Canned Tuna Fusilli

Smoked tuna makes weeknight dinner fancy.

This is the easiest pasta you’ll ever make. Ready in less than 30 minutes!

This dish is so easy to make and only requires a few ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.

The best part about this recipe is that it can be made in under 30 minutes, which makes it perfect for a weeknight meal.

23. One-Pan Creamy Canned Tuna Penne

This one-pan dish is easy to make, packed with flavor and will take your tastebuds on an unforgettable journey.

Its a beautiful dish that´s perfect for a busy weekday dinner or an elegant weekend lunch.

It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

This creamy canned tuna dish is sure to hit the spot.

24. 10-Minute Spaghetti with Tuna Ragout

If you’re looking for a quick and easy tuna pasta recipe, this 10-minute creamy canned tuna pasta is the perfect meal.

Made with just a few simple ingredients, this delicious pasta dish is ready a no time flat!

If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, serve with a side of vegetables.

Whatever you do, don’t skimp on the capers – it’s what makes this dish so special!

25. One-Pot Tuna and Orzo with Feta

There’s no need to turn on the oven for this healthy, one-pot meal.

Tender canned tuna (instead of fresh salmon), creamy orzo, and salty feta come together in a dish that’s simple to make but full of flavor.

This one-pot tuna and orzo with feta is a delicious and satisfying recipe that can be on the table in less than 30 minutes.

This is a perfect weeknight meal for busy cooks.

26. Easy Canned Tuna Casserole

This one-pot dish is easy from start to finish.

This easy pasta dish is ready in a flash, and dinner will be on the table in no time.

It’s perfect for midweek, when you’re tired but need to still get your Omega-3 quota.

27. Canned Tuna Lasagna

This simple canned tuna recipe is a delicious, budget-friendly meal that the whole family will love.

By layering canned tuna, pasta sauce, and lasagna noodles in a frying pan, you can create a hearty dish that is packed with flavor.

This dish can be served as is, or with a side of salad or garlic bread.

28. Canned Tuna Ricotta and Dill Ravioli

Ever since I can remember, my freezer’s been stocked full of ravioli.

Like instant ramen or canned soup, it’s perfect for those days when you don’t feel like going to the supermarket to buy fresh ingredients.

Just swap the canned salmon in this recipe with canned tuna.

29. Creamy Canned Tuna Macaroni & Cheese

This creamy dish is packed with flavor and is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

This recipe is also versatile – you can swap out the pasta for another type of noodle or add in some vegetables to bulk it up.

This recipe is easy to make and can be on the table in under 30 minutes.

30. Tuna Spaghetti Carbonara

I’ve made this pasta dish with spaghetti and linguine noodles, but any long pasta will work.

The cream sauce is a great complement to the tender tuna and salty bacon. Remember to serve it right away before the sauce thickens.

Canned tuna is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, both of which are essential for a healthy diet.