Everything You Need To Know About Cooking With Canned Tuna

Canned tuna is one of the most underrated pantry staples. It’s affordable, packed with protein, and ridiculously versatile. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of it.

Canned tuna is an ingredient that’s always good to have on hand, whether you need a last-minute meal or a budget-friendly way to add protein to your diet.

With the right seasonings and pairings, canned tuna can go from basic to bold in minutes. From classic tuna salad to hearty pasta dishes, it’s an easy way to add flavor and substance to your meals without much effort.

Jump to:

• Types of canned tuna
• How to use canned tuna
• How to make canned tuna taste better
• Storage and shelf life
• Canned tuna deserves a spot in your pantry
• 💬 Reviews and Comments

Types of canned tuna

Not all canned tuna is the same, and choosing the right type can make a big difference in your recipe. Here’s a breakdown of the main options and how to use them.

Chunk light tuna

Chunk light tuna is typically made from smaller species like skipjack, which gives it a softer texture and a stronger, more pronounced flavor. Because it’s made from smaller fish, it tends to have lower mercury levels than albacore. It’s also the most affordable option, making it a great choice for budget-friendly meals. The flakier texture works well in tuna salads, sandwiches, and casseroles, where it blends easily with other ingredients.

Albacore or white tuna

Albacore tuna, often labeled as white tuna, has a firmer texture and a milder, more delicate flavor. Unlike chunk light tuna, which is made from multiple smaller fish, albacore is typically cut from a single, larger fish, resulting in bigger, meatier chunks. It’s slightly more expensive but a great option for dishes where you want the tuna to stand out rather than blend in. Albacore works well in salads, pasta dishes, and wraps, where its firmer texture holds up better. However, eat it in moderation because albacore tends to have higher mercury levels.

Oil-packed vs. water-packed

Canned tuna comes packed in either oil or water, and the difference can impact both flavor and texture. Oil-packed tuna is richer and more flavorful, while water-packed tuna is lighter and lets other ingredients stand out.

• Oil-packed tuna: Packed in oil, this type stays moist and has a richer flavor. The added fat makes it great for Mediterranean-style salads, pasta dishes, and spreads. Use this if you want something with more depth and a bit of extra richness.
• Water-packed tuna: Stored in its own juices, water-packed tuna has a cleaner, more neutral taste. It's perfect for lighter dishes like tuna salads and sandwiches or mixed with avocado or Greek yogurt. Since it doesn’t have added fat, it’s a better choice for anyone watching their calories.

Both types have their place in the kitchen, and choosing between them depends on how you plan to use the tuna. If you want something lean and fresh tasting, go for water packed. If you’re looking for more depth of flavor and don’t mind a little extra fat, oil packed is the way to go.

How to use canned tuna

Canned tuna isn’t just for sandwiches. Here are a few ways to use it:

• Salads: Add canned tuna to a green salad or mix it with beans for extra protein. For something heartier, tuna macaroni salad combines pasta, tuna, and a creamy dressing in one easy dish. A classic mayo-based tuna salad also works well on crackers or sandwiches.
• Pasta: Stir canned tuna into warm pasta with olive oil, garlic, and capers for a quick, flavorful meal. It also pairs well with tomato-based sauces or creamy Alfredo for a heartier dish.
• Casseroles: Tuna noodle casserole is a classic comfort food made with pasta, a creamy sauce, and breadcrumbs for crunch. You can also mix tuna into baked rice dishes or vegetable casseroles for an easy, protein-packed meal.
• Sandwiches and wraps: A traditional tuna salad sandwich is a go-to, but you can also get creative by adding hummus or mashed avocado. You can also make a wrap with tuna, greens, and a light dressing for a quick and easy meal.
• Tuna cakes: Combine tuna with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings to form patties, then pan-fry them until crispy. They can be served with a dipping sauce, on a salad, or in a sandwich.
• Tuna melts: Spread tuna salad on bread, top with cheese, and broil until bubbly. Or make a tuna melt quesadilla by cooking it in a tortilla for a crispy twist.

How to make canned tuna taste better

Tuna straight from the can may taste a little bland. Here’s how to step it up:

• Add acidity: A squeeze of lemon or a splash of vinegar makes canned tuna taste fresher and less heavy. It helps balance out the richness, especially in mayo-based dishes.
• Use fresh herbs: Parsley, dill, or cilantro brings extra flavor and makes the tuna taste less one-dimensional. A small handful goes a long way in salads, wraps, or pasta.
• Mix in crunch: Chopped celery, onions, or pickles add texture and keep the tuna from feeling too soft. They also bring a little extra flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Spice: A little hot sauce, mustard, or curry powder can change the flavor to make it more interesting. Even a pinch of black pepper or garlic powder helps.
• Add oil: If using water-packed tuna, mixing in olive oil makes it richer and less dry. A drizzle of flavored oil, like garlic or chili-infused alternatives, adds even more depth.

Storage and shelf life

Canned tuna lasts a long time but won’t stay good forever. Proper storage helps maintain its quality and safety.

• Unopened: Store canned tuna in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It can last for up to three to five years when kept in ideal conditions.
• Opened: Transfer any leftover tuna to an airtight container and refrigerate it immediately. Use it within two to three days for the best taste and safety.

For more details on tuna storage and safety, check out How long does tuna last to ensure you're keeping it fresh and safe to eat.

Canned tuna deserves a spot in your pantry

Canned tuna is a great ingredient to keep around because it lasts for years and works in all kinds of meals. It’s an easy way to add protein to quick lunches, meal preps, and budget-friendly dinners. Whether it’s tossed into pasta, mixed into a salad, or turned into a crispy tuna patty, there’s no shortage of ways to use it. With a few seasonings and the right pairings, it can go from basic to something you look forward to eating.

Looking for more ways to save money? These cheap dinners use everyday ingredients to create satisfying meals that are simple, smart, and budget-conscious.

Sara Nelson is the creator of Real Balanced, a food blog that showcases easy and balanced recipes. Since 2017, she has shared these recipes with thousands of blog readers and social media followers. Sara lives in Wisconsin with her family.

This article originally appeared on Food Drink Life.