Description
This Tuna Pasta with Creamy Fra Diavolo Sauce is a delightful Italian-inspired main course combining tender pasta with a spicy, creamy tomato sauce enhanced by flaked tuna. Perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner, this dish balances the heat of red pepper flakes with the richness of cream and Parmesan, finished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne or linguine)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4–1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Protein
- 2 (5 oz) cans tuna in olive oil, drained and flaked
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Extra Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
- Saute Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring the garlic does not burn.
- Simmer the Tomato Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors and slightly reduce the sauce.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened, careful not to let it boil.
- Incorporate Tuna: Gently fold in the flaked tuna, ensuring it is evenly distributed without breaking it apart too much.
- Toss Pasta and Adjust Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the noodles with the sauce thoroughly. Add reserved pasta water gradually if the sauce is too thick, and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to allow the flavors to marry.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use tuna packed in olive oil for superior flavor and texture.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
