Creamy Tuna Pasta with Peas
User Reviews
4.8
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
25 mins
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Servings
4 about 2 cups each
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Calories
49183 kcal
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Course
Main Course, Lunch, Dinner
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Cuisine
American
Creamy Tuna Pasta with Peas
Description
Creamy Tuna Pasta with Peas brings together cooked pasta with a sauce made by sautéing garlic in butter, then sweeping in frozen peas and seasoning. Half and half gently simmers to reduce and form a creamy base, while Parmesan cheese melts throughout, giving a subtle savory depth. Flaked albacore tuna integrates protein and flavor, blending seamlessly into the creamy sauce. The pasta is fully coated, creating a comforting dish without clumps or dryness.
The tuna adds a mild briny note that complements the sweet freshness of peas. The texture is smooth and creamy with occasional tender morsels from the fish and pops of peas. This dish can be served directly after cooking, suitable for a straightforward meal that doesn’t require other accompaniments.
Care in sautéing the garlic ensures it is fragrant but not browned, maintaining clean flavors. Stirring frequently while simmering the half and half helps prevent scorching and achieves a subtle thickening. The Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce to enrich its body and bring a gentle, savory finish.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. pasta $0.59
- 2 Tbsp butter $0.25
- 2 cloves garlic $0.08, minced
- 1 cup peas $0.74, frozen
- 1 cup half and half $0.74
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese $1.56, shredded
- 12 oz. can albacore tuna $3.86, solid, drained
Instructions
- Bring a pot of water to a boil for the pasta. Once boiling, add the pasta and continue to boil until the pasta is tender. Drain the pasta in a colander.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the rest of the dish. Add the butter and minced garlic to a large skillet. Sauté the garlic over medium heat for about one minute, or just until it is soft and fragrant, but not browned.
- Add the frozen peas and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for a couple minutes more, or until the peas are heated through.
- Add the half and half to the skillet and allow it to come up to a simmer, stirring frequently to keep a skin from forming on the surface or the bottom from scorching. Let the half and half simmer for about 3-5 minutes, or just until it reduces slightly.
- At this point the pasta should be finished and drained. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and stir to combine. Sprinkle the Parmesan over the pasta and stir to combine again. Allow the heat to melt the Parmesan as you stir. Once melted, turn the heat off. Taste the pasta and add a pinch of salt and pepper, if needed.
- Finally, add the drained tuna and fold it into the pasta. If you are using whole tuna chunks, break them up slightly as you stir. If you are using chunk light tuna that is already in small pieces, fold gently to avoid breaking the tuna up too much. Serve warm!
Notes
- Half and half used here is a dairy combination of milk and cream, about 12% fat, providing a lighter creaminess compared to heavy cream.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4about 2 cups each
Amount Per Serving
Calories 49183 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 2Cups | |
| Calories | 491.83kcal | 25% |
| Carbohydrates | 51.8g | 17% |
| Protein | 31.4g | 63% |
| Fat | 16.65g | 26% |
| Sodium | 566.18mg | 24% |
| Fiber | 3.65g | 15% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.8
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