tuna macaroni pasta recipe

tuna macaroni pasta recipe

The Best tuna macaroni pasta recipe

I’ve been making this tuna macaroni pasta recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish has a rich history, dating back to the 1950s when it was first introduced in the United States.

It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that combines the flavors of tuna, pasta, and cheese. I love how it can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.

My kids always ask for this recipe when they’re feeling hungry after school, and I’m happy to oblige. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to customize – you can add vegetables like diced bell peppers or chopped carrots to make it more nutritious.

I’ve also tried using different types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli, but macaroni remains my favorite choice. The creamy cheese sauce and the flaky tuna create a delightful contrast of textures that never fails to impress my family members.

In fact, I’ve even served this dish at family gatherings and potlucks, and it’s always been a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or just need a reliable option for meal prep, this tuna macaroni pasta recipe is sure to become a staple in your household too.

Tuna Macaroni Pasta

Tuna Macaroni Pasta

4.6 from 1498 votes

A comforting and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender tuna and al dente macaroni in a creamy tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

200g macaroni pasta
200g canned tuna
1 cup tomato sauce
1 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic
1 small onion
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add macaroni pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3Drain and set aside.
4While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
6Add tomato sauce, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil to the skillet.
7Stir well to combine.
8Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat.
9Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
10Add canned tuna to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon.
11Stir well to combine with the sauce.
12Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the tuna is heated through.
13Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the tuna sauce.
14Toss well to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
15If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
16Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated.
17Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
18Serve the tuna macaroni pasta hot, ensuring the pasta is a nice golden color and the cheese is fully melted.
19Enjoy your meal.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large skillet
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Watch Video Of How Tuna Macaroni Pasta Works

This tuna macaroni pasta recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or want something comforting after a long day.

My family loves how easy it is to customize with their favorite ingredients and how versatile it is for meal prep.

One thing I love about this recipe is that it reheats beautifully – simply warm up individual portions in the microwave or oven without sacrificing its texture or flavor.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Tuna Macaroni Pasta

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

I prefer using macaroni because its cylindrical shape allows the cheese sauce to coat each piece evenly. However, you can experiment with other shapes like penne or shells if you prefer.

Q: Can I use canned tuna in water instead of oil?

Yes, you can use canned tuna in water if that’s what you have on hand. Just be aware that it might affect the flavor slightly.

Q: How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

To avoid overcooking the pasta, make sure to cook it al dente – still slightly firm to the bite. Then, drain and set it aside before mixing with the cheese sauce.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it?

You can prepare the cheese sauce up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, I recommend assembling the final dish just before serving for optimal taste.

Q: What are some good alternatives to cheddar cheese?

You can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, parmesan, or even feta if you prefer a tangier flavor.

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