50 Delicious and Creative Canned Tuna Recipes

Canned tuna is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in many dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, something healthy, or a new twist on an old favorite, these 50 delicious and creative canned tuna recipes are sure to inspire. 

From salads and sandwiches to casseroles and pasta, there’s a tuna recipe here to suit every taste and occasion. Discover how canned tuna can transform your everyday meals into culinary delights.

Cilantro Lime Spicy Tuna Salad Sandwich

This sandwich combines canned tuna with zesty lime juice and fresh cilantro for a refreshing twist on a classic. It is perfect for a quick lunch and adds a spicy kick to keep your taste buds excited. The Cilantro Lime Spicy Tuna Salad Sandwich is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their tuna sandwich game.

EASY Canned Tuna Fried Rice (30 min)

This tuna fried rice is a quick and easy dish that can be prepared in just 30 minutes. It’s a perfect way to use leftover rice and transform it into a delicious, satisfying meal with canned tuna and veggies. Check out the EASY Canned Tuna Fried Rice (30 min) on Greedy Girl Gourmet for a detailed guide.

Ultimate Tuna Noodle Casserole

A comforting classic, this tuna noodle casserole is rich and creamy, loaded with tender noodles, and baked to perfection. It’s a family favorite that’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners. The full recipe for the Ultimate Tuna Noodle Casserole can be found on The Cookin Chicks blog.

Mac and Cheese Tuna Casserole

This casserole blends the creamy goodness of mac and cheese with protein-packed tuna. It’s an easy, one-dish, kid-friendly, satisfying meal for adults. Discover how to make the Mac and Cheese Tuna Casserole for a delicious twist on a classic comfort food.

Cheesy Tuna Air Fryer Flautas

Crispy and cheesy, these tuna flautas are made in the air fryer for a healthier twist. Filled with a flavorful tuna mixture, they make a great appetizer or snack. The Cheesy Tuna Air Fryer Flautas are an innovative way to enjoy canned tuna in a fun and tasty format.

15-Minute Pasta Recipe with Tuna

This quick pasta recipe combines canned tuna with simple, wholesome ingredients to create a delicious meal in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, the 15-Minute Pasta Recipe with Tuna from Carrots & Cookies is both nutritious and satisfying.

Mediterranean Tuna Patties Recipe

These Mediterranean-inspired tuna patties are packed with herbs and spices, making them a flavorful and healthy option for any meal. Easy to prepare and versatile, the Mediterranean Tuna Patties Recipe is a great way to enjoy canned tuna in a new and exciting way.

Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice

This dish features crispy rice topped with a spicy tuna mixture, delightfully combining textures and flavors. Ideal for appetizers or a light meal, the Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice recipe offers a creative take on using canned tuna for an elegant presentation.

High Protein Tuna Stuffed Avocados (Whole30-Approved)

These tuna-stuffed avocados are high in protein and Whole30-approved, making them a healthy and satisfying option. The High Protein Tuna Stuffed Avocados are perfect for those looking for a nutritious and delicious meal that’s quick to prepare.

Quick & Easy Tuna Pasta Recipe 

A favorite among kids, this tuna pasta recipe is both quick and easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a wholesome meal ready in no time. The Quick & Easy Tuna Pasta Recipe is a hit with children and adults alike, making it a go-to family dinner option.

Italian Tuna + Green Bean Salad

This salad combines canned tuna with crisp green beans, olives, and a tangy dressing, creating a refreshing and healthy dish. The Italian Tuna + Green Bean Salad is a delightful way to enjoy Mediterranean flavors, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Canned Tuna Pasta (Easy, No-Cook Sauce!) 

This no-cook sauce pasta is incredibly easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Mix canned tuna with a few pantry staples for a quick and delicious meal. The Canned Tuna Pasta (Easy, No-Cook Sauce!) is ideal for busy days when you need a meal quickly.

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

A classic comfort food, this tuna noodle casserole is simple and always a crowd-pleaser. With creamy sauce and tender noodles, the Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is perfect for family dinners and potlucks.

Tuna Pesto Pasta Salad with Kalamata Olives

This pasta salad combines the rich flavors of pesto with the briny taste of Kalamata olives and canned tuna. It’s a refreshing and satisfying dish perfect for picnics or lunch. Try the Tuna Pesto Pasta Salad with Kalamata Olives for a delicious twist on traditional pasta salad.

Easy Tuna Caesar Salad Recipe

This easy Caesar salad adds a protein punch with canned tuna, making it a heartier version of the classic. The Easy Tuna Caesar Salad Recipe is perfect for a quick and nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Yaki Onigiri, Pan Fried Japanese Tuna Rice Balls

These pan-fried rice balls are filled with a savory tuna mixture, offering a delicious and portable snack or meal. The Yaki Onigiri, Pan Fried Japanese Tuna Rice Balls, are a unique and tasty way to enjoy canned tuna with a Japanese twist.

Spicy Tuna Salad Hand Rolls – Avocado Skillet

These hand rolls are filled with a spicy tuna mixture and wrapped in nori, making them perfect for a light lunch or snack. The Spicy Tuna Salad Hand Rolls are easy to prepare and pack a flavorful punch.

Tuna Burgers (with canned tuna)

These tuna burgers are a healthy and tasty alternative to traditional beef burgers. Packed with flavor and easy to make, the Tuna Burgers are perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend barbecue.

Tuna Dip (with canned tuna) 

This creamy tuna dip is perfect for parties and gatherings. Serve it with crackers or veggies for a delicious and easy appetizer. The Tuna Dip is a great way to use canned tuna in a new and exciting way.

Easy Tuna Casserole

A quick and easy version of a classic, this tuna casserole is comforting and satisfying. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, the Easy Tuna Casserole is perfect for busy weeknights.

Protein Tuna Muffins (Easy!)

These protein-packed tuna muffins are a great option for breakfast or a snack. Easy to make and portable, the Protein Tuna Muffins are a healthy way to enjoy canned tuna.

Mexican Style Tuna Salad (High Protein, Low Carb)

This Mexican-inspired tuna salad is high in protein and low in carbs, making it a healthy and flavorful meal option. The Mexican Style Tuna Salad is perfect for those following a low-carb diet.

Pasta Tuna and Sweetcorn Salad (quick & easy)

This pasta salad combines tuna and sweetcorn with a light dressing, making it a quick and easy meal. The Pasta Tuna and Sweetcorn Salad is perfect for lunches and picnics.

Tuna Salad Without Mayo (Dairy Free)

This dairy-free tuna salad uses avocado instead of mayo for a creamy and healthy twist. The Tuna Salad Without Mayo is an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions.

Shoestring Potato Tuna Salad

This unique tuna salad features crispy shoestring potatoes for added texture and flavor. The Shoestring Potato Tuna Salad is a delicious and creative way to enjoy canned tuna.

Easy Buffalo Tuna Salad (High Protein & Low-Carb) 

This buffalo tuna salad is high in protein and low in carbs, making it a healthy and flavorful meal. The Easy Buffalo Tuna Salad is perfect for those following a low-carb diet and looking for a spicy kick.

Tuna Salad Recipe With Egg (10 Minutes!) 

This quick tuna salad features hard-boiled eggs for added protein and texture. Ready in just 10 minutes, the Tuna Salad Recipe With Egg is perfect for a fast and nutritious meal.

Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake (Tuna Casserole)

This creamy pasta bake is a comforting and satisfying dish, perfect for family dinners. The Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake combines pasta and tuna in a rich, cheesy sauce that everyone will love.

Tuna Pinwheels

These tuna pinwheels are a fun and easy appetizer or snack. Made with tortillas and a flavorful tuna filling, the Tuna Pinwheels are perfect for parties and gatherings.

Tuna Pasta

This flavorful tuna pasta combines canned tuna with a delicious sauce for a quick and easy meal. The Tuna Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a tasty dinner in a hurry.

Tuna Macaroni Salad

This classic macaroni salad features tuna for added protein and flavor. The Tuna Macaroni Salad is a great side dish for barbecues and picnics.

Mexican Tuna Cakes with Jalapeño Cream Sauce

These spicy tuna cakes are served with a creamy jalapeño sauce for a flavorful and satisfying meal. The Mexican Tuna Cakes with Jalapeño Cream Sauce are perfect for those who love bold flavors.

Cheesy Tuna Casserole

This cheesy casserole is a comforting and delicious way to enjoy canned tuna. The Cheesy Tuna Casserole is easy to make and perfect for family dinners.

Tuna Mayo Avocado Rice Bowl (Donburi) 

This rice bowl features tuna and avocado for a healthy and satisfying meal. The Tuna Mayo Avocado Rice Bowl is a delicious and easy dish perfect for lunch or dinner.

Tuna Kimchi Fried Rice (Under 15 Minutes) 

This quick and flavorful fried rice combines tuna with spicy kimchi for a unique and tasty meal. The Tuna Kimchi Fried Rice is ready in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.

Tuna Cakes with Jalapeño and Cilantro

These tuna cakes are packed with flavor from jalapeño and cilantro, making them a tasty and healthy meal option. The Tuna Cakes with Jalapeño and Cilantro are easy to make and perfect for a quick dinner.

Healthy Tuna Casserole Muffins

These casserole muffins are a portable and healthy way to enjoy tuna casserole. The Healthy Tuna Casserole Muffins are perfect for meal prep and a great snack or lunch.

Classic Tuna Melt on English Muffin

This classic tuna melt is made on an English muffin for a delicious and easy meal. The Classic Tuna Melt is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Thai Tuna Salad with Green Beans (Yum Tuna)

This Thai-inspired salad features tuna and green beans in a flavorful dressing. The Thai Tuna Salad with Green Beans is a refreshing and healthy meal option.

Tuna Sushi Bowl (Perfect For Meal Prep!) 

This sushi bowl combines all the flavors of sushi in an easy and convenient format. The Tuna Sushi Bowl is perfect for meal prep and a healthy lunch option.

Braided Tuna Buns

These braided buns are filled with a savory tuna mixture, making them a delicious and portable snack. The Braided Tuna Buns are perfect for picnics and lunches.

Tuna Fried Rice

This fried rice is a quick and easy way to use canned tuna and leftover rice. The Tuna Fried Rice is a delicious and satisfying meal that is ready in no time.

Tuna Melt Wrap

This wrap is a portable and tasty way to enjoy a tuna melt. The Tuna Melt Wrap is perfect for lunches and on-the-go meals.

Tuna Fish Patties 

These fish patties are a healthy and delicious way to enjoy canned tuna. The Tuna Fish Patties are easy to make and perfect for a quick dinner.

Tuna Puttanesca with Spaghetti

This pasta dish combines tuna with the bold flavors of puttanesca sauce for a comforting and delicious meal. The Tuna Puttanesca with Spaghetti is a great pantry recipe for weeknight dinners.

Pasta with Tuna Carbonara

This carbonara dish uses tuna for a unique and tasty twist on the classic. The Pasta with Tuna Carbonara is creamy, flavorful, and easy to make.

Creamy Tuna with Crackers 

This creamy tuna dish is perfect for serving with crackers as an appetizer or snack. The Creamy Tuna with Crackers is a simple and delicious way to enjoy canned tuna.

Cucumber Tuna Boats Done Right!

These cucumber boats are filled with a flavorful tuna mixture for a refreshing and healthy snack. The Cucumber Tuna Boats are perfect for parties and gatherings.

Tuna Pie Recipe

This savory tuna pie is a comforting and satisfying meal. The Tuna Pie is easy to make and perfect for family dinners.

Final Thoughts on Canned Tuna Recipes

Canned tuna is more than just a pantry staple; it’s a gateway to an array of culinary possibilities. By experimenting with the recipes listed, you can turn an ordinary can of tuna into a gourmet meal that’s both affordable and delicious. 

Whether you’re aiming for simplicity or creativity, this versatile ingredient offers no limit to what you can achieve. So, next time you’re in the kitchen, let canned tuna inspire you to create something extraordinary.