Craving a creamy, cheesy, and filling dinner that won’t wreck your keto goals? This keto tuna casserole is a low-carb twist on the classic comfort dish, packed with flavor, protein, and healthy fats. Whether you’re following a ketogenic lifestyle or just want a grain-free alternative, this tuna bake hits all the right notes. You’ll learn what makes this dish perfect for keto, the best ingredients to use, and why canned tuna is still a top pantry staple for keto dieters.
Looking for inspiration? Try our keto buns to pair with this meal.
Understanding Keto Tuna Casserole
What Is Keto Tuna Casserole?
Keto tuna casserole is a low-carb adaptation of the traditional baked tuna dish. Instead of pasta or bread crumbs, it uses keto-approved ingredients like cabbage, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower to create a satisfying base. The sauce is made from heavy cream, cheese, and low-carb seasonings. Combined with high-quality tuna, it’s a hearty meal that keeps carbs low and satisfaction high. This casserole skips the starchy fillers while delivering rich, creamy flavor.
Why It’s a Perfect Fit for Low-Carb and Keto Diets
What makes keto tuna casserole a standout for keto lovers is its high fat and protein content, with minimal net carbs. It’s ideal for keeping you in ketosis without sacrificing taste. Tuna provides lean protein, and when combined with keto staples like cheese, cream, and low-carb veggies, it turns into a delicious, well-balanced dish. Plus, it’s easy to make in bulk and perfect for meal prep. Unlike traditional casseroles, this version helps you burn fat while staying full longer.
Table of Contents
Key Ingredients in Keto Tuna Casserole
Best Types of Tuna for Keto Recipes
The best option for keto tuna casserole is canned albacore tuna in water. It’s lean, clean, and rich in protein. If you want a richer texture, choose tuna packed in olive oil. Avoid flavored or sweetened varieties since they may contain added sugars or carbs. Fresh tuna works too, but canned tuna keeps things quick and easy.
Low-Carb Noodle Alternatives: From Cabbage to Shirataki
Skip the pasta. Cabbage is a top choice for low-carb casseroles. It softens well and adds bulk without the carbs. You can also use zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or Shirataki noodles. These swaps keep your casserole hearty without spiking blood sugar. Coleslaw mix is another shortcut that fits perfectly in a keto meal.
Creams, Cheeses, and Keto-Friendly Additions
Heavy cream and shredded cheese are must-haves. They create the creamy base and cheesy top that make this dish so comforting. Parmesan or cheddar works best. Garlic, onions, celery, and fresh dill add flavor without carbs. Lemon juice adds brightness. For a crunch, top with grated parmesan or crushed pork rinds.
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Keto Tuna Casserole Low-Carb
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Keto tuna casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and low-carb comfort food loaded with tuna, cabbage, cream, and cheese. It’s perfect for meal prep and fits right into a ketogenic lifestyle.
Ingredients
3 cans albacore tuna in water, drained
1 medium head green cabbage, shredded
1 cup heavy cream
1½ cups shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried dill
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Sauté cabbage, garlic, and onions in olive oil or butter until soft.
3. In a bowl, mix heavy cream, lemon juice, dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir in shredded cheese until melted.
5. Add tuna and mix well.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and top with more cheese.
7. Bake for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze before baking for best texture. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Add jalapeños or crushed pork rinds for extra flavor or crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Discover great ideas like our keto peanut butter cookies to finish your meal with a sweet low-carb treat.
How to Make Keto Tuna Casserole Step-by-Step
Preparation and Cooking Instructions
Start by sautéing chopped cabbage, garlic, onion, and celery in butter and olive oil until soft. In a bowl, mix lemon juice, dill, and mustard powder. Add this to the pan. Pour in heavy cream and shredded cheese, stirring until smooth. Mix in tuna and optional peas. Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and broil until golden. That’s it. One pan, minimal cleanup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking a Casserole
Don’t use too much liquid. It can turn watery. Use full-fat ingredients. Low-fat versions won’t give the same rich taste. Always drain tuna well before mixing. And avoid overbaking to keep the casserole moist and creamy.
Don’t miss our cottage cheese bagels if you want a tasty low-carb side to go with your casserole.
Nutritional Value and Carbs Count
How Many Carbs Are in Keto Tuna Casserole?
A typical serving of keto tuna casserole has around 6 to 8 grams of net carbs. The exact amount depends on your ingredients. Using cabbage or zucchini instead of noodles keeps the carb count low. Avoid peas or add just a small amount to stay within your target.
Caloric and Macronutrient Breakdown per Serving
Each serving usually has 300 to 400 calories. You’ll get about 25 grams of fat, 20 grams of protein, and under 10 grams of carbs. This balance makes it great for keto. It’s filling, nutrient-dense, and fits well in low-carb meal plans.
Looking for more ideas? Check out our mounjaro diet plan to stay aligned with your goals.
Variations and Creative Add-ins
Spicy, Cheesy, or Dairy-Free Versions
Want heat? Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper. For extra cheese flavor, mix in sharp cheddar or gouda. Need it dairy-free? Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives. Just check labels to keep it keto.
Tuna Casserole with Mushroom or Cauliflower Base
Swap cabbage for riced cauliflower or sliced mushrooms. These add flavor and texture with very few carbs. Mushrooms bring umami richness, while cauliflower keeps it light and filling.
Discover great ideas like our brazilian manjero drink to pair with your keto meals.
Storing, Freezing and Reheating Tips
How to Keep It Fresh for Meal Prep
Store leftover keto tuna casserole in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays good for up to 3 days. Let it cool before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.
Freezer-Friendly Keto Casserole Ideas
Freeze before baking for best texture. Use a foil tray or freezer-safe dish. When ready to eat, thaw overnight and bake as usual. This makes it easy to prep meals ahead.
Check out our 3-ingredient mounjaro recipe for more keto-friendly prep ideas.
Tuna on Keto: Myths and Facts
Is Canned Tuna OK for a Keto Diet?
Yes, canned tuna is keto-friendly. It’s high in protein, low in carbs, and easy to store. Choose tuna in water or olive oil. Skip versions with sauces or added sugars.
Mercury Concerns and Portion Guidelines
Tuna is safe in moderation. Limit to two or three servings per week, especially for pregnant women. Mix in other keto proteins like salmon or chicken to keep variety.
Thickening Keto Casseroles Without Flour
Low-Carb Thickeners: Cream Cheese, Xanthan Gum and More
On a keto diet, you need to skip flour and cornstarch. Luckily, there are great low-carb ways to thicken your keto tuna casserole. Cream cheese is the easiest option. It melts smoothly and adds a rich texture. Xanthan gum is another powerful thickener. Use just a pinch, or it can get slimy. Egg yolks, almond flour, or even grated cheese can help bind and thicken the sauce without adding carbs.
You can also blend in cauliflower puree. It adds body and fiber with very few carbs. If you want a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or unflavored collagen powder. All of these help you build a creamy base without breaking your macros.
How to Get That Perfect Casserole Texture
The key is to simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly before adding tuna. Don’t rush. Let the cheese melt slowly. If the mixture looks too thin before baking, add a bit more shredded cheese or cream cheese. Bake uncovered to let moisture evaporate and create that golden, cheesy crust on top. That’s how you keep your casserole thick, creamy, and satisfying without any flour.
Delicious Serving Suggestions
What to Serve with Keto Tuna Casserole
A hot dish of keto tuna casserole is rich and creamy, so you’ll want sides that balance its texture and flavor. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or brussels sprouts add crunch and earthiness. A crisp arugula or spinach salad with olive oil and lemon brings freshness. You can also add pickles or sliced avocado for healthy fats that enhance satiety.
For something more filling, pair it with our warm keto buns. Their soft texture is perfect for soaking up extra cheese sauce without adding carbs.
Perfect Keto Sides and Drink Pairings
Low-carb casseroles go great with simple drinks. Stick with sparkling water, keto-friendly lemonade, or even bone broth for extra electrolytes. If you’re hosting, serve the casserole with a platter of cucumber slices, radishes, and olives for a cold contrast that keeps things keto.
Want a complete meal plan? Pair your keto tuna casserole with our cottage cheese bagels in the morning and finish the day with keto peanut butter cookies. That keeps your carbs low and flavor high all day long.
Conclusion: Why Keto Tuna Casserole Deserves a Spot in Your Meal Plan
Keto tuna casserole is more than just a low-carb dinner. It’s a comfort food classic reimagined for keto success. With simple ingredients like canned tuna, cabbage, cream, and cheese, you get a filling, flavorful dish that fits your macros and your busy schedule. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a quick dinner, this recipe keeps you satisfied without kicking you out of ketosis.
You can easily adjust it for your taste. Add spices, switch veggies, or use different cheeses. It’s flexible, freezer-friendly, and crowd-approved. Make it once, and it’ll likely become a weekly staple in your keto rotation.
Don’t miss our mounjaro diet plan for more fat-burning meals like this.
FAQs About Keto Tuna Casserole
Is canned tuna ok for a keto diet?
Yes, canned tuna is perfect for a keto diet. It’s high in protein, low in carbs, and has zero sugar. Choose tuna packed in water or olive oil. Avoid flavored versions, as they may contain added sugars or carbs. Canned tuna makes keto tuna casserole easy, affordable, and ideal for meal prep.
Is tuna casserole keto?
Traditional tuna casseroles are not keto because they use pasta or bread crumbs. A proper keto tuna casserole uses low-carb ingredients like cabbage, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower. It replaces flour-based thickeners with cream, cheese, or egg yolk. This keeps the carb count low while preserving comfort food flavor.
How many carbs are in a tuna casserole?
A traditional tuna casserole can have over 20 grams of carbs per serving. In contrast, a well-made keto tuna casserole usually contains just 6 to 8 net carbs. Using low-carb vegetables, heavy cream, and full-fat cheese helps keep it keto-compliant.
How do you thicken a keto casserole?
Skip flour and cornstarch. Use cream cheese, shredded cheese, or a pinch of xanthan gum. These thickeners blend well and keep carbs low. Simmering your sauce before baking also helps get the perfect texture in your keto tuna casserole.
Is tuna mayo good for keto?
Yes, if you use real mayonnaise made with olive oil or avocado oil. Tuna mixed with mayo makes a quick, easy keto snack. You can even add this mix into your keto tuna casserole for extra creaminess. Just make sure the mayo has no added sugars.