If you’re in the mood to transform an ordinary pizza night into something absolutely unforgettable, let me introduce you to the joyful world of Tuna Pizza. This Italian-inspired masterpiece balances creamy mozzarella, flaky tuna, sweet red onions, and briny capers over a just-crisped crust — all coming together in one speedy weeknight bake. Tuna Pizza is the delicious answer for anyone craving seafood with a twist, and its medley of flavors will have you reaching for another slice before you even realize it. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to shake up your pizza routine, trust me, this recipe is a game-changer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Tuna Pizza lies in its short list of honest, everyday ingredients, each one bringing something unique to the table. Simple doesn’t mean boring here — each component adds flavor, color, or the perfect contrast in texture.
- Pizza dough: Whether you take the shortcut with store-bought or roll out your own, the base matters for that irresistible chew and crunch.
- Tomato sauce or pizza sauce: Savory, tangy, and just the right amount of saucy to tie everything together and keep each bite juicy.
- Mozzarella cheese: For that golden, melty, bubbly cheese pull — mozzarella is what gives Tuna Pizza its classic pizzeria flair.
- Tuna (in olive oil or water): Use oil-packed for richness or water-packed for a lighter touch, but always flaked and well-drained for perfect coverage.
- Red onion: Thinly sliced for a sweet, slightly sharp bite that plays beautifully off the tuna and cheese.
- Capers (optional): These little gems add a burst of briny, salty character that brings a Mediterranean vibe to your Tuna Pizza.
- Dried oregano: The pizza herb, lending an unmistakable Italian fragrance.
- Salt and pepper: Just a pinch of each makes all the flavors pop.
- Olive oil: A final drizzle after baking adds silkiness and depth.
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional): For a sprinkle of color and a fragrant, garden-fresh finish.
How to Make Tuna Pizza
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prep the Base
Start off by cranking your oven up to a sizzling 475°F (245°C), letting a pizza stone or baking sheet heat up inside. This step makes sure you get that dreamy, crisped bottom crust that can handle all the toppings you’re about to pile on.
Step 2: Roll and Shape the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your dough into a circle about 12 inches across. You want it thin but not paper-thin, aiming for that delightful mix of chewy center and crunchy edges. Transfer your dough onto parchment paper to make topping (and later, transferring) super easy.
Step 3: Saucy and Cheesy Layers
Spoon the tomato sauce evenly across your rolled-out dough, leaving about half an inch around the edge for that glorious crust. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, making sure every bite will have some melty, golden goodness.
Step 4: Tuna, Onions, and Extras
It’s time for the Tuna Pizza star: scatter your flaked tuna over the cheese so it’s evenly distributed. Add those pretty slivers of red onion and, if you love a little salty zing, dot the pizza with capers. Give it all a gentle sprinkle of oregano, plus a pinch of salt and plenty of freshly cracked black pepper.
Step 5: Bake to Bubbling Perfection
Using the parchment as a sling, carefully transfer your pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crust is golden and puffed and the cheese is bubbling with pockets of bronzed goodness.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Pull your Tuna Pizza from the oven and immediately drizzle a little olive oil over the top for a beautiful sheen and flavor boost. Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley if you have it on hand. Slice, serve hot, and prepare for rave reviews at the table!
How to Serve Tuna Pizza
Garnishes
Astound your guests or family with a handful of fresh basil leaves or a dusting of chopped flat-leaf parsley right before serving. Not only do the herbs add a pop of color and aroma, but they also elevate every single bite with freshness and make your Tuna Pizza look like it came from a trendy bistro.
Side Dishes
A rustic side salad is perfect for cutting through the richness of Tuna Pizza. Think crisp green leaves tossed in a bright vinaigrette, maybe some cherry tomatoes and cucumber for crunch. Or opt for roasted vegetables, a simple coleslaw, or even a light minestrone soup to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping presentation, slice your Tuna Pizza into slim strips for an appetizer platter at your next gathering. You can also serve personalized mini pizzas by dividing the dough into smaller rounds, letting everyone top their own. Pair with a chilled glass of white wine or a zesty sparkling lemonade for extra flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply let the Tuna Pizza cool to room temperature before storing slices in an airtight container. They’ll keep perfectly in the fridge for up to 3 days and make an amazing quick lunch or snack.
Freezing
Want to have Tuna Pizza at the ready for your busiest days? Cool the baked pizza completely, then wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. Freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge or in your microwave before reheating.
Reheating
For the best results, pop leftover slices in a 375°F (190°C) oven for a few minutes until the cheese is melty and the crust re-crisps. A toaster oven or dry skillet on the stove works in a pinch, but avoid the microwave if you want to maintain that irresistible texture.
FAQs
Can I use tuna packed in water instead of olive oil?
Absolutely! Tuna packed in water has a lighter taste and still works beautifully. Just be sure to drain it thoroughly for the best texture on your Tuna Pizza.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten free?
Yes! Swap in your favorite gluten-free pizza dough or cauliflower crust. Just follow the baking instructions and enjoy a gluten-free version of Tuna Pizza that everyone can devour.
What other toppings pair well with tuna on pizza?
For a Mediterranean flair, try adding thinly sliced black olives, a few dollops of ricotta, or even roasted red peppers. Each brings another dimension of flavor to your Tuna Pizza.
Can I prepare the pizza in advance?
You can assemble your Tuna Pizza a few hours ahead; simply keep it covered and refrigerated until ready to bake. For the freshest results, bake just before serving so the crust stays crisp.
How can I prevent my pizza crust from getting soggy?
Preheating your baking surface and making sure your sauce isn’t too watery are key! This creates that lovely, golden base that holds up to all the flavorful toppings of Tuna Pizza.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in search of a weeknight winner or a unique pizza twist to wow a crowd, look no further than Tuna Pizza. With its layers of bold flavor, speedy preparation, and endless room for creativity, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Don’t be surprised when it becomes your new pizza night obsession — give it a try, and share the Tuna Pizza love!
Print
Tuna Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 2–4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Tuna Pizza recipe is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining the flavors of the sea with the comfort of a cheesy, bubbly pizza. With a crispy crust, savory tuna, and a hint of Mediterranean flair, this pizza is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
Ingredients
Pizza:
- 1 prepared pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or pizza sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Toppings:
- 1 (5 oz) can tuna in olive oil or water, drained and flaked
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon capers (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
- Prepare Dough: Roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. Transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper.
- Add Sauce and Toppings: Spread the tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a border. Sprinkle with mozzarella, tuna, red onion, capers, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bake: Transfer the pizza with parchment onto the preheated stone or sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle with olive oil, garnish with herbs if desired, slice, and serve hot.
Notes
- For a Mediterranean twist, add olives or ricotta.
- Use oil-packed tuna for richer flavor; ensure it’s well-drained.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
