Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Tuna Pesto Pasta is a quick and comforting dish that combines the richness of cream, the herby freshness of pesto, and the savory depth of tuna. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners, it delivers gourmet flavor with minimal effort. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to your pasta of choice, making each bite a flavorful delight.

ingredients

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

pastacanned tunapesto sauceheavy creamgarlicolive oilsalt and peppergrated parmesan cheesechopped parsley (optional)

directions

Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.

Add the canned tuna (drained) and cook for 2–3 minutes, breaking it apart.

Stir in pesto sauce and heavy cream. Mix well and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If needed, add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve hot, topped with grated parmesan and chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use sun-dried tomato pesto instead of basil for a tangier twist.

Add baby spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.

Swap heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as preferred.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess.Microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals to avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Yes, seared or poached fresh tuna can be used, but canned tuna is quicker and more convenient.

What type of pesto works best?

Basil pesto is classic, but any variety—like arugula or walnut pesto—can be used.

Can I freeze this pasta?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, as the cream sauce may separate when frozen and reheated.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, the creamy and mild flavors are generally appealing to children.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce ahead and store it separately. Reheat and combine with fresh pasta for best results.

Do I need to add cheese?

No, but parmesan adds a nice salty touch to balance the creamy sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuna Pesto Pasta is a fast, flavorful meal that feels indulgent yet easy to make. With simple pantry staples and minimal prep, it’s the perfect go-to for a cozy night in or a last-minute dinner. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a regular in your rotation.