However, serving the same tuna sandwich week after week gets boring fast.
That’s why I’ve gathered these 20 amazing canned tuna recipes that transform this budget-friendly staple into delicious meals your whole family will love.
From comforting classics to international inspirations, these recipes prove that canned tuna deserves a special place in your meal planning rotation!
Why Canned Tuna Deserves a Spot in Your Pantry
- Budget-friendly: At just a few dollars per can, tuna delivers protein without breaking the bank.
- Shelf-stable: Keep it in your pantry for months, making it perfect for last-minute meals.
- Protein-packed: A 5oz can provides around 30g of lean protein.
- Versatile: Works in hot dishes, cold salads, and everything in between.
- Quick: No cooking required – just open and use!
I’ve organized these recipes into categories to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Whether you need a quick lunch, family dinner, or something to impress guests, there’s a canned tuna recipe here for you!
Choosing the Right Canned Tuna
| Tuna Type | Characteristics | Best For |
| Albacore (White) | Mild flavor, firm texture, pale color | Salads, sandwiches, dishes where tuna is the star |
| Skipjack/Yellowfin (Light) | Stronger flavor, softer texture, darker color | Casseroles, pasta dishes, recipes with bold flavors |
| Oil-Packed | Richer taste, moister texture | Pasta dishes, Mediterranean recipes |
| Water-Packed | Lower calories, cleaner flavor | Diet-friendly recipes, dishes with added fats |
For sustainability, I recommend looking for labels like “pole-caught” or “FAD-free” on your canned tuna.
These fishing methods are more environmentally friendly and help protect ocean ecosystems.
Classic Comfort: Timeless Tuna Recipes
1. Ultimate Tuna Melt
There’s nothing quite like a perfectly toasted tuna melt to satisfy comfort food cravings.
My version combines creamy tuna salad with sharp cheddar and sourdough bread for the ultimate sandwich experience.
- Mix 1 can drained tuna with 3 tablespoons mayo, 1 tablespoon diced celery, 1 tablespoon diced red onion, and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard.
- Butter one side of two slices of sourdough bread.
- Place one slice butter-side down in a pan, add tuna mixture and sliced cheddar.
- Top with second bread slice (butter-side up) and grill until golden and cheese melts.
For an extra flavor boost, add a slice of tomato or some pickles to your tuna melt.
This sandwich pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or potato chips for a complete meal.
2. Tuna Patties
These crispy tuna patties are a budget-friendly dinner that even kids love. They’re similar to crab cakes but much more economical, and they come together in just minutes with pantry staples.
- Combine 2 cans drained tuna, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 2 beaten eggs, 2 tablespoons mayo, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1/4 cup chopped parsley.
- Form into 4 patties and chill for 15 minutes if time allows.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Serve these tuna patties with a dollop of tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon. They’re delicious alongside roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
3. Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole
This nostalgic casserole brings me back to childhood dinners. I’ve updated the classic recipe with fresh mushrooms and a homemade sauce instead of canned soup for a more flavorful result.
- Cook 8oz egg noodles according to package directions.
- Meanwhile, sauté 1 diced onion and 8oz sliced mushrooms in butter until soft.
- Add 2 tablespoons flour and cook for 1 minute, then whisk in 2 cups milk to make a sauce.
- Stir in 2 cans drained tuna, cooked noodles, 1 cup frozen peas, and 1 cup shredded cheddar.
- Transfer to a baking dish, top with crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.
Quick Lunches: 15-Minute Tuna Recipes
4. Mediterranean Tuna Salad
This no-mayo tuna salad is perfect for lunch and stays fresh in the refrigerator for several days. The Mediterranean flavors make this a refreshing change from traditional tuna salad.
- Combine 1 can drained tuna with 1/4 cup diced cucumber, 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper, 2 tablespoons diced red onion, 10 halved cherry tomatoes, and 1/4 cup crumbled feta.
- Add 10 kalamata olives (halved) and 1 tablespoon capers.
- Dress with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Serve this Mediterranean tuna salad over greens, stuffed in a pita pocket, or with whole grain crackers for a light but satisfying lunch option.
5. Tuna Stuffed Avocados
These stuffed avocados are a protein-packed lunch that feels fancy but takes just minutes to prepare. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the flavorful tuna mixture.
- Mix 1 can drained tuna with 1 tablespoon mayo, 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon diced red onion, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Halve 1 ripe avocado and remove the pit.
- Scoop a small amount of avocado from each half to create more space for filling.
- Fill avocado halves with tuna mixture and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.
6. Asian-Inspired Tuna Wrap
This wrap brings together Asian flavors for a lunch that’s anything but boring. The crunchy vegetables and tangy dressing make this a refreshing midday meal.
- Mix 1 can drained tuna with 1 tablespoon mayo, 1 teaspoon sriracha, and 1 teaspoon soy sauce.
- Lay out a large tortilla and add tuna mixture, 1/4 cup shredded carrots, 1/4 cup thinly sliced cucumber, and a handful of mixed greens.
- Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro and 1 tablespoon sliced green onions.
- Roll up tightly and slice in half.
Family Dinners: Hearty Tuna Recipes
7. Lemon Caper Tuna Pasta
This simple pasta dish is my go-to dinner when the pantry is bare. The combination of tuna, lemon, and capers creates a restaurant-worthy meal with minimal effort.
- Cook 8oz spaghetti according to package directions.
- Meanwhile, heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add 2 cans tuna (preferably oil-packed), 2 tablespoons capers, 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, and the zest and juice of 1 lemon.
- Toss with drained pasta, adding 1/4 cup reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce.
- Finish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan.
8. Tuna and White Bean Skillet
This protein-packed one-pan meal combines two pantry staples – canned tuna and white beans – for a nutritious dinner that’s ready in under 20 minutes.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking until softened.
- Add 1 can drained white beans, 1 can drained diced tomatoes, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, then gently fold in 2 cans drained tuna and 2 cups baby spinach.
- Cook until spinach wilts, then finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh basil.
9. Spicy Tuna Rice Bowl
This recipe transforms humble canned tuna into a crave-worthy rice bowl inspired by spicy tuna sushi rolls. The crispy rice base adds wonderful texture contrast.
- Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a skillet and add 2 cups cooked rice, pressing down to create a crispy bottom.
- Meanwhile, mix 2 cans drained tuna with 3 tablespoons mayo and 2 tablespoons sriracha.
- Divide crispy rice between bowls and top with spicy tuna mixture.
- Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and kimchi or pickled vegetables.
Global Flavors: International Tuna Recipes
10. French Tuna Niçoise Salad
This classic French salad makes a beautiful and satisfying meal. While traditional Niçoise salad often uses fresh tuna, canned tuna works perfectly and makes this elegant dish weeknight-friendly.
- Arrange a bed of mixed greens on a large platter.
- Top with 8oz boiled new potatoes, 6oz blanched green beans, 2 cans drained tuna, 3 hard-boiled eggs (halved), 1/2 cup Niçoise olives, and 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes.
- Whisk together 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 minced garlic clove, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
- Drizzle dressing over the salad just before serving.
11. Spanish Tuna Empanadas
These hand pies are perfect for picnics, lunch boxes, or a light dinner with a side salad. The Spanish-inspired filling is flavorful and satisfying.
- Sauté 1 diced onion and 1 diced bell pepper until soft.
- Add 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon cumin, cooking until fragrant.
- Stir in 2 cans drained tuna, 1/4 cup chopped green olives, and 2 tablespoons tomato paste.
- Cool mixture, then spoon onto refrigerated pie crust rounds.
- Fold dough over to create half-moons, seal edges, and brush with beaten egg.
- Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
12. Italian Tuna and Cannellini Bean Salad
This no-cook Italian salad is perfect for hot summer days when you don’t want to turn on the stove. It’s hearty enough for dinner but also works well as a side dish.
- Combine 2 cans drained tuna, 1 can drained cannellini beans, 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced), and 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes in a large bowl.
- Add 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, 2 tablespoons capers, and 2 tablespoons chopped basil.
- Dress with 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Let sit for 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Healthy Options: Nutritious Tuna Recipes
13. Tuna-Stuffed Bell Peppers
These colorful stuffed peppers are loaded with protein and vegetables for a nutritious dinner option. They’re also great for meal prep as they reheat beautifully.
- Halve 3 bell peppers lengthwise and remove seeds.
- Mix 2 cans drained tuna with 1 cup cooked quinoa, 1 cup diced zucchini, 1/2 cup diced onion, 1/2 cup diced tomato, and 1/4 cup chopped parsley.
- Bind mixture with 1 beaten egg and season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Fill pepper halves with tuna mixture and top with a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
- Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until peppers are tender.
14. Tuna and Chickpea Lettuce Wraps
These light but filling lettuce wraps make a perfect lunch or light dinner. They’re packed with protein from both tuna and chickpeas.
- Mash 1 can drained chickpeas roughly with a fork.
- Add 1 can drained tuna, 1/4 cup diced cucumber, 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper, and 2 tablespoons diced red onion.
- Mix with 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon mixture into large lettuce leaves (romaine or butter lettuce work well).
- Top with sprouts or microgreens before serving.
15. Tuna and Sweet Potato Cakes
These nutritious cakes combine protein-rich tuna with vitamin-packed sweet potatoes for a satisfying meal. They’re perfect for meal prep and freeze well.
- Bake or microwave 1 large sweet potato until soft, then mash in a bowl.
- Add 2 cans drained tuna, 1 beaten egg, 2 sliced green onions, 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro, 1 teaspoon cumin, and salt and pepper.
- Form into 8 patties and chill for 30 minutes if time allows.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet and cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side until golden.
Creative Twists: Unexpected Tuna Recipes
16. Tuna and Corn Quesadillas
These unexpected quesadillas are a hit with kids and adults alike. The combination might sound unusual, but the flavors work surprisingly well together.
- Mix 1 can drained tuna with 1/2 cup corn kernels, 2 tablespoons diced red bell pepper, 2 tablespoons sliced green onions, and 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
- Spread mixture on half of a large tortilla and fold over.
- Cook in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cheese melts.
- Cut into wedges and serve with salsa and sour cream.
17. Tuna Poke Bowl
While traditional poke uses raw fish, this version with canned tuna captures the flavors of Hawaii in a budget-friendly, pantry-based meal.
- Mix 2 cans drained tuna with 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1 teaspoon rice vinegar, and 1/2 teaspoon honey.
- Serve over cooked rice with diced cucumber, sliced avocado, shredded carrots, and edamame.
- Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo (mix 2 tablespoons mayo with 1 teaspoon sriracha).
18. Tuna Breakfast Hash
Who says tuna is just for lunch and dinner? This protein-packed breakfast hash is a great way to start your day and uses ingredients you likely have on hand.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet and add 2 cups diced potatoes, cooking until crispy.
- Add 1/2 diced onion and 1/2 diced bell pepper, cooking until softened.
- Stir in 1 can drained tuna, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Create wells in the hash and crack 4 eggs into them.
- Cover and cook until eggs reach desired doneness.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs before serving.
Party Pleasers: Tuna Appetizers
19. Tuna-Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
These bite-sized appetizers are perfect for parties and gatherings. They look impressive but are actually quite simple to prepare.
- Slice the tops off 24 cherry tomatoes and hollow out the centers with a small spoon.
- Mix 1 can drained tuna with 3 tablespoons cream cheese, 1 tablespoon mayo, 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pipe or spoon the tuna mixture into the tomatoes.
- Garnish with additional chopped chives or a small piece of dill.
20. Tuna Cucumber Bites
These refreshing cucumber rounds topped with seasoned tuna make a perfect light appetizer for summer gatherings. They’re low-carb and gluten-free too!
- Slice 1 English cucumber into 1/2-inch rounds.
- Mix 1 can drained tuna with 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon chopped dill, salt, and pepper.
- Top each cucumber round with a spoonful of tuna mixture.
- Garnish with a small sprig of dill or a caper before serving.
Featured Recipe: Ultimate Tuna Melt
Ultimate Tuna Melt
This classic tuna melt takes the humble tuna sandwich to new heights with perfectly toasted bread, creamy tuna salad, and melted cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 can (5oz) tuna, drained
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon finely diced celery
- 1 tablespoon finely diced red onion
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 slices sourdough bread
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened
- 2 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- Optional: sliced tomato, pickles
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine tuna, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Butter one side of each bread slice.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Place one slice of bread butter-side down in the skillet.
- Layer with one slice of cheese, the tuna mixture, optional tomato or pickles, second slice of cheese, and top with the second bread slice (butter-side up).
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then carefully flip.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the second side is golden and cheese is melted.
- Cut in half and serve immediately.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
| 5 minutes | 7 minutes | 12 minutes | 1 sandwich |
Upgrade Your Canned Tuna Game
I hope these 20 canned tuna recipes have inspired you to look at that humble pantry staple in a whole new light!
From quick lunches to impressive dinners, canned tuna truly is one of the most versatile ingredients you can keep on hand.
My personal favorite is the Lemon Caper Tuna Pasta because it transforms simple ingredients into something that tastes restaurant-worthy in just 15 minutes.
However, I’d love to know which recipe you try first!
Share Your Creations!
Did you try one of these recipes?
I’d love to see how it turned out! Tag your photos on Pinterest or Instagram with #TunaRecipes.
Remember, the key to delicious canned tuna recipes is using quality ingredients and not being afraid to get creative with flavors.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, these recipes prove that canned tuna deserves a special place in your meal planning rotation!
