Creamy Tuna Spaghetti: Your Ultimate Quick & Delicious Weeknight Meal
Discover the magic of this incredibly easy and flavorful creamy tuna spaghetti recipe. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a healthy, satisfying, and quick meal on the table in just 20 minutes! This delightful pasta dish is packed with savory parmesan cheese, earthy mushrooms, briny olives, and bright citrus notes, creating a symphony of flavors that will impress even the pickiest eaters. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that promises comfort in every forkful.
Why Creamy Tuna Spaghetti is a Family Favorite
There are some recipes that just stick with you, becoming a reliable staple in your culinary repertoire. For many, this creamy tuna spaghetti is exactly that dish. It’s the ultimate comfort food in a bowl, a lifesaver when time is short, but the craving for something homemade, healthy, and utterly delicious strikes. Imagine silky, savory spaghetti noodles generously tossed in a rich parmesan sauce, brimming with tender mushrooms and olives, and then complemented by the robust flavor of premium tuna. For an extra layer of texture and indulgence, it’s often baked with toasted buttery breadcrumbs, though the stovetop version is equally divine and ready even faster!
While a tuna pasta bake offers wonderful deep flavors, the stovetop creamy tuna spaghetti holds a special place in our hearts for its incredible speed. It’s typically ready in less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal solution for any hectic evening. Every time this tuna fish spaghetti makes an appearance, I know I need to cook extra. It’s devoured so quickly, and requests for second helpings are a guarantee!
Our family’s love for pasta runs deep, and spaghetti noodles are undeniably the top choice. This Tuna Spaghetti boasts a creamy white sauce, enriched with high-quality Albacore tuna, Parmesan cheese, sliced mushrooms, and olives. Whether you prefer to whip it up quickly in a skillet for an instant meal or prepare it ahead of time and bake it to golden perfection, this versatile dish is consistently delicious. It beautifully combines the best elements of two classic quick-fix meals: a comforting tuna tetrazzini casserole and a classic spaghetti dish.
The Power of Canned Albacore Tuna: A Pantry Essential
Canned tuna, especially premium Albacore, is a true pantry superhero. It’s what I often reach for when preparing a quick, nutritious lunch. My husband, who often comes home for lunch, is a big fan, and we frequently enjoy tuna-based meals. From creamy tuna salad served on toasted English muffins to innovative creations like Caprese Tuna Salad stuffed into fresh, homegrown tomatoes, tuna offers endless possibilities.
Beyond its convenience, tuna is incredibly good for you. It’s naturally low in fat and calories, while being an excellent source of beneficial Omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for heart and brain health. Tuna comes in various forms, including convenient pouches of light or premium Albacore tuna, perfect for single servings or quick additions to salads. For larger family meals like this spaghetti, canned tuna remains an excellent and economical option, offering consistent quality and flavor.
Why You’ll Adore This Creamy Tuna Spaghetti Recipe
This creamy tuna spaghetti isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a culinary solution designed for modern life. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation:
- Effortlessly Easy & Rapid: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this tuna and pasta recipe can be on your dining table in approximately 20 minutes. It’s the perfect antidote to long, demanding days when an elaborate meal feels like too much. Despite its simplicity, the flavor profile is so rich and satisfying, no one will guess how little effort went into preparing it!
- Nutritious & Wholesome: Boasting lean protein and essential omega-3s from the tuna, this quick tuna spaghetti also incorporates fresh mushrooms and olives, boosting your daily vegetable intake. It’s a meal that truly nourishes your body without compromising on taste.
- Irresistibly Delicious: This tuna spaghetti recipe is genuinely finger-lickin’ good! Its comforting and robust flavors make it suitable for any night of the year, promising a hearty and flavorful experience every time.
Versatile Culinary Companion: What to Mix with Canned Tuna
Canned tuna is a wonderfully versatile ingredient, capable of transforming into countless delicious meals. Its mild flavor pairs well with a wide array of accompaniments. You can mix it with fresh vegetables for a vibrant salad, combine it with crispy breadcrumbs for delectable patties, or serve it alongside grains like rice or quinoa. It’s fantastic in sandwiches, wraps, or even baked into casseroles. For a refreshing twist, try a Tuna Caprese Salad for a light and flavorful lunch!
Key Ingredients for Your Creamy Tuna Spaghetti
This recipe relies on a few simple ingredients to create its signature creamy, savory profile. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
Ingredient Spotlight:
- Spaghetti: While spaghetti noodles are excellent for soaking up the creamy sauce, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape like fettuccine, linguine, or even penne.
- Cream Cheese: A key player in achieving that luxurious creaminess. Onion and chive flavored cream cheese adds an extra layer of savory depth to the tuna spaghetti, but plain cream cheese works beautifully too.
- Mushroom Soup: One can of low-fat cream of mushroom soup forms the base of our velvety sauce. For a homemade touch, you can prepare your own from scratch.
- Mushrooms: Whether you opt for conveniently canned or freshly sliced mushrooms, they contribute an earthy flavor and tender texture. Canned, drained mushrooms offer a quick solution.
- Tuna: Canned tuna or tuna in pouches both work well. Choose regular or premium albacore tuna for the best flavor and texture. Ensure it’s well-drained.
- Olives: Sliced black olives introduce a delightful brininess and Mediterranean flair that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
- Onion: Freshly chopped yellow or white onion adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation to the sauce.
- Milk: Skim milk is used in this recipe, but any type of milk (whole, 2%, or even a non-dairy alternative) can be substituted to achieve your desired richness.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh or bottled lemon juice is crucial. It brightens the entire dish, cutting through the richness and adding a zesty finish to the tuna spaghetti.
- Breadcrumbs: If you’re planning a baked tuna pasta version, breadcrumbs are essential for creating that irresistible golden, crunchy topping.
- Green Onions: Sliced green onions are not just for garnish; they provide a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color upon serving.
- Parmesan Cheese: Divided shredded or freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, salty, and cheesy goodness that binds the flavors together.
How to Master This Speedy Tuna Spaghetti
This incredible dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a fuss-free weeknight dinner. The process is straightforward: while the spaghetti boils in one pot, you simultaneously prepare the rich, creamy sauce in a skillet. Into this luscious base, you’ll stir in Parmesan cheese, tender mushrooms, savory olives, and premium Albacore tuna. A quick stir to heat everything through, then toss it with your perfectly cooked noodles. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan and bright green onions, and it’s ready to serve!
Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to preparing your delicious creamy tuna spaghetti:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Cook the spaghetti: Begin by boiling your spaghetti according to package directions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain thoroughly and set aside.
Step 2: Craft the Creamy Sauce
Make the sauce: In a medium pan or skillet set over medium heat, combine the cream cheese, condensed mushroom soup, and milk. Whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated, heating gently.
Step 3: Introduce the Star Ingredients
Combine ingredients: To the creamy sauce, add the drained tuna, sliced mushrooms, olives, and a quarter cup of the fresh Parmesan cheese. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
Continue to stir gently until all components are thoroughly combined and heated through, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Marry Pasta and Sauce
Toss with spaghetti: Add the cooked and drained spaghetti noodles directly into the pan with the warm, creamy sauce. Toss gently but thoroughly, ensuring every strand of pasta is coated in the luscious sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Serve immediately, topped with the remaining Parmesan cheese and a generous sprinkle of sliced green onions for a fresh finish.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Tuna Spaghetti
Elevate your tuna spaghetti with these simple yet effective tips:
- Storage Savvy: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It reheats well on the stovetop with a splash of milk or in the microwave.
- Healthy Twist: For a lighter, healthier take on this classic, consider serving the creamy sauce with spiralized vegetable noodles (like zucchini or carrot) instead of traditional spaghetti.
- Prevent Stickiness: While preparing the sauce, you can briefly rinse your cooked spaghetti noodles with cool water to prevent them from sticking together. This is especially helpful if you’re making the sauce separately. Just remember to warm them slightly before tossing with the hot sauce.
- Boost the Flavor: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick, or a dash of dried dill can enhance the fish flavors.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to sauté some spinach, peas, or bell peppers with the onions for added nutrients and color.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tuna Pasta
Is Tuna Pasta a Good Option for Weight Loss?
Yes, tuna is an excellent source of lean protein, making it a fantastic ingredient for keeping calorie counts low while staying satiated. To make this tuna spaghetti even more weight-loss friendly, consider substituting traditional pasta with a gluten-free or whole-wheat variety, or even vegetable noodles as mentioned in the tips.
What Can I Use in Tuna Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking to avoid mayonnaise, several delicious alternatives work wonderfully with tuna. Options include creamy avocado, savory hummus, plain Greek yogurt (for a tangy and protein-rich twist), mashed hard-boiled egg, or vibrant pesto. Each offers a unique flavor and texture to your tuna dishes.
How Can I Enhance the Flavor of Canned Tuna?
Canned tuna, while convenient, can be elevated with a few simple additions. Incorporate freshly chopped vegetables like celery, bell peppers, or carrots for crunch and freshness. Experiment with various seasonings and spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs (dill, parsley, oregano), or a pinch of cayenne for heat. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice is always a winner for brightening its taste. You can also mix it with breadcrumbs and herbs to form delicious tuna patties, or serve it alongside seasoned rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Can I Prepare This Tuna Spaghetti Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This recipe is ideal for meal prepping. Simply combine all the ingredients as directed, then place the mixture into a baking dish. This creates a “baked” version of the pasta dish. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You can also prepare the sauce separately and cook the pasta just before serving for maximum freshness.
What Other Pasta Shapes Pair Well with Tuna and Cream Sauce?
While spaghetti is a classic, many other pasta shapes are excellent choices. Penne, rigatoni, rotini, or shells are great for capturing the creamy sauce within their nooks and crannies. Fettuccine or linguine also work beautifully, offering a similar long, satisfying noodle experience.
Explore More Delicious Recipes!
If you loved this quick and easy tuna spaghetti, be sure to check out these other fantastic recipes for inspiration:
- Easy Chicken Piccata Recipe
- Classic Tuna Casserole
- Chicken and Noodles
- Smoked Salmon Pasta
- Creamy Mushroom Risotto
It’s time to whip up some delightful TUNA SPAGHETTI! Enjoy every savory bite. 
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Print Recipe
Tuna Spaghetti
Equipment
- Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet With Assist Handle, 10.25″, Black
Ingredients
- 1 – 12 ounce package of spaghetti cooked al dente
- 4 Tablespoons Low fat chive and onion cream cheese
- 1 can cream of low fat mushroom soup
- 1 – 4 ounce can of sliced mushrooms drained
- 1 – 5 ounce can of Bumble Bee Premium Albacore Tuna or 2 – 2.5 ounce Pouches
- 1/2 cup black olives sliced
- 1/4 cup onion chopped
- 1/2 cup skim milk
- 1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs for baked version
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese divided
Instructions
- Boil and drain spaghetti, set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, combine cream cheese, soup and milk with a whisk until smooth.
- Add tuna, mushrooms, olives and 1/4 cup of fresh Parmesan cheese.
- Stir until combined, and heated through.
- Toss with spaghetti.
- To serve top with additional cheese and sliced green onions.
- To make the baked version, after tossing the pasta and sauce together, pour it into a 2 quart casserole dish, prepared with non-stick spray. Sprinkle top with remaining cheese, green onions and bread crumbs. Cover and bake for 25 minutes, uncover and bake for 5 minutes more.
Nutrition
This recipe was originally posted on August 27, 2014. It has been updated to improve user experience and reshared on July 4, 2021.
Make Ahead: The Baked Tuna Spaghetti Version
Looking for a comforting baked dish? This creamy tuna spaghetti recipe is also wonderfully adaptable for a make-ahead baked version. It’s perfect for potlucks, entertaining, or simply enjoying a casserole-style meal. Simply combine all of the prepared ingredients as instructed for the stovetop method, then transfer the mixture into a baking dish. This creates a delightful “baked” version of this pasta dish, developing deeper flavors and a beautifully golden, bubbly top. Feel free to add a sprinkle of extra cheese and buttery breadcrumbs on top before baking for an irresistible crust.
This opportunity was made possible through Clever Girls Collective, and all content and opinions expressed here are my own.