17 net carbs

Tuna casserole

Delight in the rich flavors of our low-carb tuna casserole, a comforting dish featuring albacore tuna, cabbage “noodles,” and a creamy parmesan sauce with zesty lemon and dill, perfect for a satisfying, low-carb meal.

Recipe last updated: May 27, 2024

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Tuna casserole

Name: Low-carb tuna casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 ribs celery, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium head green cabbage, cut into large shreds to resemble noodles; salt and black pepper; 2 teaspoons dried dill; 2 teaspoons dry mustard powder; 1 lemon, juice; 2 tablespoons lemon zest; 1½ cups heavy cream; 1½ cups parmesan cheese, grated and divided; 3 5-ounce cans albacore tuna, drained; ½ cup frozen peas; Optional - crushed pork rines

Last Updated: May 27, 2024
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Low-carb tuna casserole

Total Diabetes Wellness

Experience our delicious low-carb tuna casserole, a wholesome and satisfying dish. This comforting casserole combines albacore tuna, crisp cabbage "noodles," and a creamy parmesan sauce with zesty lemon and dill. With the option to add a delightful crunch with crushed pork rinds, this recipe is a satisfying meal that's both nourishing and delicious. Whether you're following a low-carb lifestyle or simply looking for a new favorite dish, our tuna casserole is sure to impress with its hearty flavors and easy preparation.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Lunch and Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 5 servings

Net Carbs 17 g

*Net carbs are per serving

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, chopped
3 ribs celery, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium head green cabbage, cut into large shreds to resemble noodles
salt and black pepper
2 teaspoons dried dill
2 teaspoons dry mustard powder
1 lemon, juice
2 tablespoons lemon zest
1½ cups heavy cream
1½ cups parmesan cheese, grated and divided
3 5-ounce cans albacore tuna, drained
½ cup frozen peas
Optional - crushed pork rines

Instructions

In a large ovenproof skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, garlic, and cabbage. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 10 minutes.
Add the dill, mustard powder, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix in the heavy cream and 1 cup of parmesan cheese. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
Once the sauce has thickened, add the tuna and peas. Taste and add additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat.
Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese and crushed pork rines (optional).
Broil for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is golden. Enjoy!

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Nutrition

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Equipment

Large skillet

Keywords keto tuna casserole, low-carb seafood casserole, low-carb tuna casserole

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Photos of Low-Carb Tuna Casserole

Top view of ingredients to make low-carb tuna casserole on a white wood table.

Low-carb tuna casserole served on a black dinner plate.

Close-up side view of low-carb tuna casserole served on a black dinner plate.

Notes

Low-carb noodle substitutions: Zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, Shirataki noodles, sliced bell peppers, or broccoli florets are all good substitutions for the cabbage ‘noodles’ in this recipe.
Protein options: Add shredded chicken or turkey along with the tuna in the recipe to increase protein. If you want to eliminate tuna from the recipe altogether, consider trying the recipe with salmon, shrimp, or chicken.
Crispy topping options: Adding crushed pork rinds to the top is a great option to give your casserole a crispy topping. You can also use fried onions. Make sure to double-check the ingredients, as some brands have more carbs than others.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tuna casserole recipe Keto?

No, this recipe is not Keto. One serving of this low-carb tuna casserole has 17 net carbs, which would not be a good fit if you’re limited to 20 carbs a day on Keto.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, our tuna casserole recipe is gluten-free.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Make-ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking for a convenient make-ahead meal.
Storing leftovers: Store any leftover casserole in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days to enjoy as easy, ready-to-eat leftovers.
Freezing instructions: For longer storage, freeze the assembled casserole for up to 2 months, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, for a convenient freezer meal option. You can also freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers.
To reheat: Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated.

Additional Details

We’re excited to introduce you to our low-carb tuna casserole – a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s not only easy to make but also fits into your low-carb lifestyle.

Casseroles have long been a staple in home kitchens, offering a convenient way to bring together various ingredients into one comforting dish. Our low-carb tuna casserole puts a nutritious twist on this classic concept, incorporating delicious ingredients perfect for individuals with diabetes and those aiming to reduce their carbohydrate intake.

Details about ingredients

The star of our low-carb tuna casserole is the albacore tuna, known for its mild flavor and firm texture. Combined with crisp cabbage “noodles,” this dish provides a satisfying alternative to traditional pasta-based casseroles. The creamy parmesan sauce, infused with lemon juice and dill, adds depth of flavor without raising the carb count. Optional crushed pork rinds give the casserole a delightful, crunchy texture.

Variations

You can easily adjust this recipe to your taste preferences and dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream. Additionally, you can experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance the flavor profile – parsley, thyme, or paprika are all great options. For added protein, consider incorporating cooked chicken or turkey alongside the tuna.

If you’re not a fan of cabbage noodles, here are some other options:

Zucchini noodles: Substitute cabbage with spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a lighter and more pasta-like texture.
Spaghetti squash: Roast and shred spaghetti squash strands as a nutritious and slightly sweeter alternative to cabbage “noodles.”
Shirataki noodles: Use shirataki noodles, also known as konjac or miracle noodles, which are low-carb and virtually calorie-free.
Sliced bell peppers: Thinly slice bell peppers, such as red or yellow, to add color, flavor, and crunch to the casserole.
Broccoli florets: Steam or blanch broccoli florets until crisp-tender and use them as a base for the casserole, adding a boost of fiber and nutrients.

Serving pairings

Pair our low-carb tuna casserole with a side of fresh salad greens dressed with olive oil and vinegar for a complete and balanced meal. Alternatively, serve it alongside steamed vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower for added fiber and nutrients. This versatile dish also pairs well with a slice of whole-grain bread or a side of roasted sweet potatoes for a heartier meal.

Benefits for people with diabetes

Managing diabetes involves making careful food choices to regulate blood sugar levels. Our low-carb tuna casserole offers several benefits for individuals with diabetes:

Low-carb: By using cabbage “noodles” instead of traditional pasta, this casserole reduces the overall carbohydrate content, helping to prevent spikes in blood sugar levels.
High-protein: Albacore tuna is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps to promote satiety and regulate blood sugar levels.
Nutrient-dense: This casserole is packed with nutrient-rich ingredients like cabbage, garlic, and parmesan cheese, providing essential vitamins and minerals to support overall health.

Tips

Ensure the cabbage “noodles” are cooked until crisp-tender to maintain their texture in the casserole.
Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, adding more or less salt, pepper, and herbs as desired.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating in the oven or microwave before serving.
Feel free to get creative with additional add-ins like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

Our low-carb tuna casserole is not only a delicious and satisfying meal option but also a diabetes-friendly choice that aligns with your dietary goals. With its flavorful combination of ingredients and simple preparation, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re managing diabetes or simply looking for a nutritious and comforting dish, our tuna casserole is a versatile option that can be enjoyed by all.