Creamy Tuna Pasta Skillet

There’s something incredibly comforting about a one-pan meal that’s both creamy and packed with flavor. This Creamy Tuna Pasta Skillet fits the bill perfectly. It’s a quick, satisfying dinner that brings together tender pasta, savory tuna, sweet peas, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or craving a cozy dinner, this recipe is a surefire winner that’s simple enough for beginners but flavorful enough to impress the whole family.

Why It Works Every Time

This Creamy Tuna Pasta Skillet works every time because of its perfect balance of textures and flavors. The pasta—penne or fusilli—holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying. The tuna adds a hearty, protein-packed element, while the peas bring a pop of sweetness and color. The Parmesan cheese lends a sharp, nutty depth that rounds out the dish. Plus, cooking everything in one skillet means the flavors meld together while you save on cleanup. It’s comfort food made effortless.

What You’ll Gather

• 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli preferred for their sauce-holding shapes)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tuna in water, drained
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Before You Start: Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan – big enough to hold the pasta and sauce comfortably.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring without scratching your pan.
• Knife and cutting board – for prepping onion, garlic, and parsley.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to get the cream and seasonings just right.
• Colander – to drain the pasta if you prefer to cook it separately.

Creamy Tuna Pasta Skillet: How It’s Done

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the 8 oz of pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. If you want to save time, you can cook the pasta directly in the skillet with some water, but cooking separately ensures perfect texture.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This base builds the flavor foundation for the creamy sauce.

Step 3: Add Tuna and Peas

Stir in the drained tuna, breaking it up gently with your spoon. Add the frozen peas, and cook for 2 minutes until the peas are heated through. The tuna warms up nicely and the peas add freshness and texture.

Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce

Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Let the sauce cook for a minute or two, thickening slightly. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. The cheese enriches the sauce, making it velvety and indulgent.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce. Heat it through for another minute or so, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy goodness!

Ingredient Flex Options

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
• Swap peas for spinach or broccoli florets for a different veggie twist.
• Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free version.
• Try shredded mozzarella or Asiago instead of Parmesan for a milder or sharper taste.
• Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or olives for an extra layer of flavor.

Pro Perspective

• To intensify the tuna flavor, choose high-quality tuna packed in water, drained well but not overly dry.
• Make sure not to overcook the peas; they should be bright and slightly crisp to contrast the creaminess.
• For an extra creamy texture, reserve some pasta water before draining and add a splash to the sauce if it gets too thick.
• Freshly grated Parmesan works best because it melts smoother and adds a more vibrant flavor than pre-grated varieties.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This Creamy Tuna Pasta Skillet reheats beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. You can reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. This recipe also freezes well—just thaw overnight and reheat as usual.

Creamy Tuna Pasta Skillet Q&A

Can I use canned salmon or chicken instead of tuna?

Absolutely! Canned salmon or shredded cooked chicken both work well in this recipe. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid before adding it to the skillet to keep the sauce from becoming watery.

Is it necessary to cook the pasta separately?

Cooking pasta separately ensures perfect texture and reduces the risk of the sauce becoming too thick or thin. However, you can cook pasta directly in the skillet with some broth or water, stirring frequently, but it requires more attention to avoid sticking.

How can I make this recipe lighter?

To lighten the dish, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or use a lower-fat cream alternative. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to bulk it up without extra calories.

What can I serve with this creamy tuna pasta?

A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta perfectly. Garlic bread or roasted vegetables also make excellent side dishes for a complete meal.

Keep Cooking

• If you love creamy pasta dishes, try the Creamy Bacon Alfredo Pasta Bake for a smoky, cheesy twist.
• For a chicken lover’s version, the Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Skillet is a fantastic next dish to explore.

The Last Word

This Creamy Tuna Pasta Skillet is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly comforting and delicious. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a meal that’s creamy, flavorful, and satisfying every single time. It’s the perfect dish to have in your weeknight dinner rotation—quick to make, easy to love, and versatile enough to adapt to whatever you have on hand. So grab your skillet, and let’s get cooking!

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