Tuna Spaghetti in Tomato Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy weeknight dinner
• Made with simple pantry ingredients
• Rich and savory tomato sauce
• High in protein and satisfying
• Budget-friendly meal option
• Great for busy schedules
• Delicious comforting pasta dish

Ingredients

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

• spaghetti
• canned tuna
• tomato sauce
• garlic
• onion
• olive oil
• red pepper flakes
• parsley
• salt
• black pepper

Optional additions:

• olives
• capers
• parmesan cheese
• basil
• lemon zest

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente.
2. Reserve a small amount of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the onion and cook until softened.
5. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook until fragrant.
6. Add the tomato sauce and simmer for several minutes.
7. Stir in the tuna and gently break it into chunks.
8. Season with salt and black pepper.
9. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss until coated.
10. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
11. Stir in parsley and any optional ingredients.
12. Serve warm with optional parmesan cheese or herbs.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add olives and capers for Mediterranean flavor.
• Use chili flakes for extra spice.
• Add spinach or peas for more vegetables.
• Use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.
• Add lemon zest for brightness.
• Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat:

• Warm in a skillet with a splash of water or tomato sauce.
• Microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh but reheats well.

FAQs

What type of tuna works best?

Canned tuna in olive oil or water both work well.

Can I use another pasta shape?

Yes, penne, linguine, or fusilli also work nicely.

Is this recipe spicy?

It’s mild unless extra red pepper flakes are added.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well for quick meals later.

What vegetables pair well with tuna spaghetti?

Spinach, peas, olives, and tomatoes pair wonderfully.

Can I use fresh tuna?

Yes, cooked fresh tuna can be flaked into the sauce.

Is parmesan cheese traditional with tuna pasta?

Some prefer it without cheese, but parmesan can still be added if desired.

How do I keep the pasta from drying out?

Add reserved pasta water or extra sauce while reheating.

Can I make this gluten free?

Yes, use gluten-free spaghetti.

What can I serve with tuna spaghetti?

Garlic bread, salad, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.

Conclusion

Tuna Spaghetti in Tomato Sauce is a quick and comforting pasta dish packed with savory tomato flavor and tender tuna. Easy to prepare with pantry staples, this satisfying meal is perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. Simple, flavorful, and budget-friendly, it’s a timeless recipe that’s always delicious and comforting.

Tuna Spaghetti in Tomato Sauce

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Tuna Spaghetti in Tomato Sauce is a quick and comforting pasta dish made with tender spaghetti, savory tuna, and rich tomato sauce. Packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavor and simple pantry ingredients, this hearty meal is perfect for busy weeknights and easy family dinners.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 2 cans tuna, drained
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup sliced olives (optional)
• 1 tbsp capers (optional)
• Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
• 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente.
2. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
5. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
6. Add the tomato sauce and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes.
7. Stir in the tuna and gently break it into chunks.
8. Season with salt and black pepper.
9. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss until evenly coated.
10. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
11. Stir in parsley and any optional ingredients like olives or capers.
12. Serve warm with parmesan cheese, basil, or lemon zest if desired.

Notes

• Canned tuna packed in olive oil adds extra flavor, but water-packed tuna also works well.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
• Add spinach or peas for extra vegetables and color.
• Fresh tomatoes can replace canned tomato sauce for a fresher flavor.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat with a splash of water or extra tomato sauce to keep the pasta moist.
• This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a simple salad.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 430 kcal
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 620 mg
• Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 52 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg