19 Great Meals to Make With Canned Tuna

Opening up a can of tuna is the easy lunch or dinner solution!

Canned tuna is a pantry powerhouse. It’s mild, buttery flavor tempts even the “I don’t like seafood” crowd, and it's so very versatile that you’ll never get bored. I always have a can or two sitting on the shelf. It makes for a quick and easy lunch, snack, or simple family dinner.

If you’re new to canned tuna, here are a few details to note when buying. Albacore and skipjack tuna are the most common types of tuna used for canning. Light tuna is usually skipjack and has a fuller flavor than albacore, which is sometimes labeled white tuna. Either is delicious, so try both and see what you like best. Look for cans labeled pole-and-line caught. It’s the most sustainable way to catch tuna, as it preserves the surrounding marine life.

Another variable in canned tuna is what is included in the can. Canned tuna packed in oil is richer in flavor compared to those packed in water. Some canned tuna includes only tuna and salt, which is also a great option.

Read on to discover all the delicious ways to turn a simple can of tuna into a feast for the whole family.

Tuna Patties

Warm and crispy tuna patties are an easy crowd pleaser. Drained tuna is mixed with egg, bread, herbs, and seasoning and then browned in a skillet (or cooked in an air fryer!). These can be shaped and chilled overnight for an even easier dinner time. Serve with lemon wedges and coleslaw.

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Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

This comforting casserole uses cream of mushroom soup, egg noodles, cheese, and of course, tuna. My childhood self can attest to loving this dish even without the added crunch of the potato chips on top.

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Tuna Noodle Casserole from Scratch

Here’s a more homemade take on tuna noodle. Instead of using a can of cream of mushroom soup, we’ll use fresh mushrooms to make a creamy, cheesy mushroom sauce. Crushed potato chips are layered on top before baking until bubbly and golden brown. For the best results, use light tuna packed in water.

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Tuna and Tomato Pasta Casserole

Raid the pantry and make this comforting tuna-lovers casserole. Pasta shells, tomato sauce, ricotta, and a can of tuna packed in oil are tucked into a casserole dish, topped with parmesan cheese, and baked until bubbly. Delicious.

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Pasta with Tuna and Arugula

Exhausted after a long day and not in the mood to cook? Well, look no further for dinner. This simple pasta uses only 7 ingredients and is on the table in fifteen minutes. Use whatever long pasta you have in the pantry and while the pasta cooks, drain the tuna and mince garlic. Mix in the drained pasta and serve.

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Tuna Pasta With Tomato and Olives

Take a bold approach to tuna and pair it with tomato sauce, short pasta, and briny olives. This stunning meal is ready in 30 minutes. Use oil-packed tuna and serve with a simple green salad.

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Tuna Macaroni Salad

This tuna macaroni salad is chock full of crunchy bell peppers, celery, and lettuce; delighting our taste buds with an array of textures and flavors. Pack it in a lunch box or serve at a backyard bbq to the delight of friends and family. For the best results use oil-packed tuna and omit the lettuce until ready to serve.

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Best Tuna Salad

Classic mayo-dressed tuna salad never goes out of style. Feel free to adjust it to your tastes by adding fresh herbs or serving over lettuce instead of bread. Whatever you choose, it’s sure to please.

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Pasta with Tuna and Capers in White Wine Sauce

Dress up oil-packed tuna with bow tie pasta, white wine, and capers for a mid-week meal that’s ready in twenty-five minutes. Double to serve 4. Add even more flavor by adding sliced tomatoes, garlic, or lemon zest.