If you’ve been searching for a new obsession to brighten up pizza night, let me introduce you to Tuna Pizza! This Mediterranean-inspired gem takes all the comforting joy of classic pizza and gives it a fresh, briny twist with flaked tuna, melty cheese, and pops of savory toppings. Whether you’re a longtime tuna fan or just dipping your toe into the world of seafood pizza, every bite hits with layers of flavor and delicious contrasts—crispy golden crust, bubbling mozzarella, and that softly spiced tomato base you’ll want to mop up every last crumb. Tuna Pizza is the best kind of surprise: simple to throw together, totally satisfying, and a total crowd-pleaser for family or friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the beautiful things about Tuna Pizza is just how uncomplicated it is—no hard-to-find ingredients, just a handful of kitchen staples that shine when layered together. Each element brings something different, whether it’s creamy, salty, sharp, or chewy, making every slice utterly irresistible.
- Pizza dough: The base for all the magic—use a good-quality store-bought or homemade dough for chewy, golden results.
- Tomato sauce or pizza sauce: Brings moisture, sweetness, and a vibrant tang that ties everything together.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: For that classic stretch and creamy melt that every pizza needs.
- Canned tuna (in olive oil or water): Drained and flaked; opt for high-quality tuna for the most luscious flavor.
- Red onion: Thinly sliced, it adds a mild bite and splash of color—plus it mellows beautifully in the oven.
- Black olives: Their saltiness and depth pair perfectly with the savory toppings.
- Dried oregano: Just a sprinkle brings warmth and unmistakable Mediterranean aroma.
- Capers (optional): These add bright pops of briny flavor—try them if you love a little extra zing!
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For anyone who likes a touch of gentle heat.
- Olive oil: For brushing the crust so it bakes up golden, glossy, and a little crisp at the edges.
How to Make Tuna Pizza
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Baking Surface
Start by blasting your oven to 475°F, getting it nice and hot for that crave-worthy, crisp-bottomed crust. Pop your pizza stone or an upside-down baking sheet inside as the oven heats—it’ll help your Tuna Pizza bake evenly and get that irresistible golden crunch.
Step 2: Stretch the Dough
On a piece of parchment paper, roll or stretch your dough into a 12-inch circle. Don’t stress about making it perfect—the rustic shape is all part of the homemade charm. Lightly brush the outer edge with olive oil for that classic pizzeria sheen (and delicious crispness).
Step 3: Sauce and Cheese
Spread your tomato sauce evenly over the dough, stopping just before the edge so every slice has a bit of chewy crust. Sprinkle on the shredded mozzarella to form a luscious, gooey layer when baked—if you like it extra cheesy, you can always add a bit more!
Step 4: Add Tuna and Toppings
Flake your drained tuna right over the cheese, then scatter on the red onion, black olives, and capers if you’re using them. That combination is what sets Tuna Pizza apart—the tuna’s richness is balanced by the tangy onions and pop of olives. Finish with a sprinkle of dried oregano and crushed red pepper flakes for warmth and a gentle kick.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Carefully slide the pizza (keep it on the parchment) onto your preheated baking surface. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the crust is puffed and golden, and the cheese is bubbling with those dreamy browned spots. Let it cool just a minute or two before slicing—it’ll be easier to handle (and you won’t burn your mouth on molten cheese!).
How to Serve Tuna Pizza

Garnishes
The best finishing touches? Right after baking, try a handful of fresh arugula for a peppery lift or a good squeeze of lemon over the entire pizza. If you want even more color and flavor, a few scattered fresh basil leaves or a light drizzle of chili oil are absolutely divine.
Side Dishes
Serve Tuna Pizza with a bright, crisp green salad tossed in lemony vinaigrette, or some roasted Mediterranean vegetables for a heartier meal. Warm breadsticks or a bowl of marinated olives make fantastic—yet simple—companions if you’re setting out a spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your Tuna Pizza into small squares for party appetizers, or bake miniature versions for personal pizzas—always a hit at gatherings. For a Mediterranean twist, top each slice with a ribbon of marinated artichoke or a dollop of garlicky aioli.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover Tuna Pizza cool completely before storing. Pop slices into an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better—perfect for next-day lunches!
Freezing
Wrap cooled slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 2 months. When that pizza craving strikes, you’ll be ready with a homemade treat—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat Tuna Pizza in a 375°F oven for about 8 minutes until warmed through and the crust crisps back up. A toaster oven also works wonders for single slices. The microwave is quick, but it will soften your crust.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned for Tuna Pizza?
Absolutely! Just lightly sear the fresh tuna, flake or cube it, and scatter it over the pizza before baking. It gives a slightly different texture but keeps the pizza delicious and protein-packed.
How do I keep the pizza base from getting soggy?
Make sure your oven is fully preheated and use a hot baking stone or steel if possible. Spreading the sauce in a thin layer and not overloading with wet toppings will help keep the base nice and crisp.
Is there a gluten-free option for Tuna Pizza?
Yes, simply swap for your favorite gluten-free pizza dough. All the toppings work perfectly on a gluten-free base—just bake as directed and enjoy.
What other cheeses can I use instead of mozzarella?
Try a mix of mozzarella with provolone or even a sprinkle of Parmesan on top for a sharper, nuttier flavor. If you love a bit of creaminess, a few dollops of ricotta before baking can be lovely, too.
Can I make Tuna Pizza ahead for a party?
Definitely! Assemble the pizza up to the point of baking, store it (covered) in the fridge for a few hours, then bake just before serving. You can also pre-bake the crust, add toppings, and then finish in the oven to reheat and melt the cheese.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a fun twist on pizza night, this Tuna Pizza just might become a regular in your kitchen. It’s easy, bursting with bright flavors, and a fantastic way to surprise your taste buds. Dive in, share it with friends, and savor every slice—you’ll see why Tuna Pizza deserves a spot on your table!
Print
Tuna Pizza Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Tuna Pizza recipe combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the convenience of a homemade pizza. A crispy crust topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, flaked tuna, red onions, olives, and oregano, this pizza is a seafood lover’s delight.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough:
- 1 ball pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Toppings:
- ½ cup tomato sauce or pizza sauce
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 (5 oz) can tuna in olive oil or water, drained and flaked
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup black olives, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon capers (optional)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 475°F and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
- Prepare the Dough: Roll or stretch the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle on a piece of parchment paper. Lightly brush the edges with olive oil.
- Add Toppings: Spread tomato sauce over the dough, sprinkle mozzarella, top with tuna, red onion, olives, and capers (if using). Add oregano and red pepper flakes.
- Bake: Transfer the pizza onto the baking surface and bake for 10–12 minutes until golden. Remove, cool slightly, slice, and serve.
Notes
- This pizza is delicious with a squeeze of lemon or fresh arugula after baking.
- Opt for high-quality canned tuna for the best flavor.
- Make it spicy by adding jalapeños or chili oil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 40mg