Creamy Tuna Pasta is a comforting dish that brings together the rich taste of tuna with a luscious, velvety sauce. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying and delicious plate that will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to enjoy a classic favorite that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat.
Steps
- Start by boiling a pot of water and cook 8 oz. of pasta until it’s tender. Once cooked, drain the pasta using a colander.
- As the pasta cooks, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 minced cloves of garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is soft and aromatic.
- Add 1 cup of frozen peas to the skillet, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue sautéing for a few more minutes until the peas are thoroughly heated.
- Pour in 1 cup of half and half into the skillet and bring it to a simmer, stirring constantly to avoid a skin forming or the bottom from burning. Allow it to simmer for around 3-5 minutes until it slightly reduces.
- Once the pasta is drained, add it to the skillet and mix well with the creamy sauce and peas. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan over the mixture and stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Drain a 12 oz. can of solid albacore tuna and gently fold it into the pasta. Break up any large chunks slightly, but be careful not to over-mix if using chunk light tuna to maintain its texture. Serve the dish warm.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup half and half
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz. can solid Albacore tuna, drained
Nutritional Values
Calories: 983.66 kcal | Carbohydrates: 103.6 g | Protein: 62.8 g | Fat: 33.3 g | Saturated Fat: N/A | Cholesterol: N/A | Sodium: 1132.36 mg | Fiber: 7.3 g | Sugars: N/A
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
- Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta variety you prefer, such as penne, elbow macaroni, or fusilli. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package to ensure it is cooked to your liking.
- What can I substitute for half and half in the sauce?
- If you don’t have half and half, some readers have successfully used whole milk thickened with a little cornstarch or made a roux with flour and butter. However, results may vary with these substitutions.
- Is there an alternative to frozen peas in this dish?
- Yes, you can use canned peas, but keep in mind they will have a softer texture. You might also consider substituting with other vegetables like spinach or kale for a different flavor and texture.
- How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until warmed through.
- What other ingredients can I add to this recipe for extra flavor?
- You can customize this dish by adding ingredients like spinach, kale, red pepper flakes, fresh herbs such as basil or chives, diced tomatoes, or a sprinkle of Ranch seasoning. A squeeze of lemon on top before serving can also enhance the flavor.
Tips
- Choose the Right Tuna: Opt for solid albacore tuna if you prefer larger chunks of tuna throughout your dish, providing a meatier texture. However, if you’re looking to save on cost, chunk light tuna can be a more affordable alternative, though it tends to be more flaky.
- Prevent the Sauce from Scorching: When simmering the half and half, make sure to stir frequently to avoid a skin forming on the surface and to prevent the bottom from scorching. This helps maintain the creamy consistency of the sauce.
- Customize with Add-ins: Consider enhancing the dish with additional ingredients like fresh herbs, such as basil or chives, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. These add-ins can elevate the flavor profile and make the dish more versatile.
- Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, use a microwave and stir the pasta every 30 seconds to ensure even heating, keeping in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce.
Equipment
- Large Skillet – Essential for sautéing ingredients and mixing the pasta with the sauce.
- Colander – Needed for draining the pasta.
- Garlic Press (optional) – Useful for mincing garlic if you prefer not to do it manually.
- Cheese Grater – If you are using a wedge of Parmesan cheese, a grater would be necessary for shredding.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – Useful for accurately measuring ingredients like butter, peas, and half and half.
