Tuna Pasta: A Creamy and Cozy Weeknight Delight
There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of pasta, especially on those chilly evenings when the world outside feels a little too hectic. I still remember the Saturday nights of my childhood when my mom would whip up her famous Tuna Pasta. The aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil would waft through the house, inviting everyone to gather at the table. It was a simple dish, yet it brought so much joy and warmth to our hearts — and our bellies.
This Tuna Pasta recipe is just like the one I cherished growing up, with a creamy, cheesy sauce that cradles tender pasta and delightful pops of peas. It’s a perfect easy weeknight dinner ready in under 30 minutes—a meal you’ll want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: Kid-approved ingredients that make everyone at the table happy.
- Creamy Comfort: The melted cheese creates a rich, comforting sauce that wraps around every bite.
- Versatile and Customizable: Great for using up pantry staples; add your favorite mix-ins!
- Nutrient-Packed: Packed with protein from the tuna and peas, this dish is as nourishing as it is delicious.
What You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients to create your cozy Tuna Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (your choice)
- 1 can tuna, drained
- 1 cup peas (frozen or fresh)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Let’s Make It Together
Creating this dish is a breeze! Follow these friendly steps to whip up your Tuna Pasta:
-
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
-
Add the pasta and broth to the skillet; bring to a boil.
-
Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer and cook according to pasta package instructions until al dente.
-
Stir in the tuna and peas, cooking until heated through.
-
Remove from heat and stir in the cheese until melted and creamy.
-
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Delicious Variations to Try
This Tuna Pasta is delightful as is, but you can easily customize it to suit your tastes. Here are a few fun ideas:
- Lemon Zest: Add a touch of bright, zesty lemon juice to elevate the flavors and brighten the creamy sauce.
- Herbed Up: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or arugula at the end for added nutrients and a hint of green.
- Crunch Factor: Sprinkle some crispy breadcrumbs on top for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creaminess.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’re in the mood for a little heat.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
Here are my best kitchen secrets for creating a perfect Tuna Pasta every time:
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the components a day before. Cook the pasta and store it in the fridge, then simply warm it up and add the cheese and other ingredients.
- Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to use different types of pasta or cheeses — gouda or mozzarella work beautifully!
- Leftovers Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to revive its creamy quality.
Nutrition Information per Serving
Here’s what’s inside this cozy dish:
- Serving size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 700mg
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Simply prepare the pasta and store it in the fridge. Warm and add the remaining ingredients when you’re ready to eat. -
Can I use different ingredients?
Absolutely! Swap the tuna for canned salmon or even cooked chicken for a different flavor profile. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. -
How long does it last?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Wrapping It Up
This Tuna Pasta recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a cozy embrace straight from the heart. It’s perfect for those nights when all you want is something warm and satisfying, made with love and simplicity. So grab your favorite bowl, indulge in this creamy delight, and make some beautiful memories at the dinner table.
Save this Tuna Pasta to your recipe board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat!
Tuna Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (your choice)
- 1 can tuna, drained
- 1 cup peas (frozen or fresh)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the pasta and broth to the skillet; bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer and cook according to pasta package instructions until al dente.
- Stir in the tuna and peas, cooking until heated through.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
