Spicy Tuna Tomato Penne

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors yet quick and easy to make, this Spicy Tuna Tomato Penne is your new weeknight hero. Combining the briny goodness of tuna with the vibrant zing of diced tomatoes and a kick of red pepper flakes, this pasta recipe delivers a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re short on time or just want a dish that feels fancy without the fuss, this recipe hits all the right notes. Plus, it’s made with pantry staples, making it perfect for those moments when you want deliciousness without a trip to the grocery store.

Why This Recipe Works

This Spicy Tuna Tomato Penne recipe works because it balances simplicity with layers of flavor. The penne pasta provides the perfect canvas—its ridges and tubes capture the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is coated in spicy, savory goodness. Using canned tuna packed in water keeps the dish light but protein-packed, while the undrained diced tomatoes add a robust, slightly tangy base without needing extra broth or stock. The fresh onion and garlic sautéed in olive oil build a fragrant foundation, and the red pepper flakes introduce just the right amount of heat, customizable to your taste. A sprinkle of fresh basil at the end adds a bright herbal note, and a dusting of Parmesan cheese (optional) rounds it all out with creamy umami richness.

This dish is not only flavorful but also incredibly quick to prepare, making it a smart choice for busy nights or when you want a fuss-free, delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes. If you love pasta recipes with a bit of a spicy twist, you might also enjoy trying Spicy Cajun Chicken Penne or the vibrant Garlic Butter Shrimp Penne.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta – to cook the penne to al dente perfection
• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking the sauce and combining ingredients
• Colander – to drain the pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula – to stir the sauce and pasta
• Knife and cutting board – for dicing onion, garlic, and chopping basil
• Measuring spoons and cups – to ensure accurate ingredient portions

Mastering Spicy Tuna Tomato Penne: How-To

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

While the pasta cooks, heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Spice

Pour in the entire can of diced tomatoes (including the juice) along with 1 to 2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes, depending on your heat preference. Stir well to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Incorporate Tuna

Flake the drained tuna with a fork and add it to the skillet. Gently fold it into the tomato sauce, being careful not to break it up too much. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together over low heat until the pasta is well coated and warmed through, about 2 minutes.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Basil and Serve

Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. This dish shines best fresh but can also be reheated for later enjoyment.

If you’re a fan of seafood pasta dishes, you might want to explore the creamy and indulgent flavors found in Creamy Tomato Garlic Shrimp Pasta for your next meal.

Seasonal Spins

• Summer: Add fresh cherry tomatoes and zucchini for a bright, garden-fresh twist.
• Fall: Stir in roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms for earthy depth.
• Winter: Incorporate chopped kale or spinach for extra greens and nutrition.
• Spring: Toss in peas or asparagus tips for a pop of sweetness and crunch.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

• Overcooking the pasta: It’s essential to cook penne just al dente so it holds up well when mixed with the sauce.
• Skipping the pasta water: Adding reserved pasta water helps bind the sauce to the pasta and prevents dryness.
• Adding too much red pepper flakes at once: Start with less—heat can always be added gradually to suit your palate.
• Using tuna with oil instead of water: Tuna packed in water keeps the dish lighter and avoids an oily texture.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This Spicy Tuna Tomato Penne keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving directly as it can dry out the pasta.

Freezing is possible but not ideal, as the pasta may become mushy upon thawing. If you do freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Spicy Tuna Tomato Penne FAQs

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?

Fresh tuna can be used, but it requires a different cooking approach. You’ll want to sear or grill the fresh tuna separately to your desired doneness, then flake it into the pasta at the end. Canned tuna is more convenient and blends easily into the sauce.

How can I make this recipe less spicy?

Simply reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether. You can also add a bit of sugar to the sauce to balance out any residual heat.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This pasta holds up well when stored in the fridge and can be portioned out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Can I substitute penne with other pasta types?

Absolutely! Rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle are great alternatives that will hold the sauce just as well.

Serve with These

• Spicy Cajun Chicken Penne – for a fiery twist on a classic chicken pasta.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Penne – if you want a buttery seafood option.
• Creamy Tomato Garlic Shrimp Pasta – for a richer, cream-based seafood pasta.
• Simple mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette – to brighten and balance the meal.
• Crusty garlic bread – perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

In Closing

This Spicy Tuna Tomato Penne recipe is a fantastic addition to your pasta repertoire. It’s quick, flavorful, and versatile enough to suit a variety of tastes and occasions. The combination of spicy and savory elements with fresh herbs creates a dish that feels both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite for busy nights or when you want a dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself reaching for canned tuna and tomatoes more often than you thought!

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