Keto Tuna Casserole with Cabbage and Parmesan

Keto Tuna Casserole with Cabbage and Parmesan

✅ Low-carb | Gluten-free | High-protein

This Keto Tuna Casserole with Cabbage and Parmesan is a cozy, low-carb twist on a classic comfort dish. Instead of pasta, it uses tender sautéed cabbage as the base — perfectly complemented by creamy sauce, flaky tuna, and melty cheese. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and great for meal prep. Whether you’re on a keto diet or just looking for a lighter casserole, this one hits the spot!

Time

• Prep: 15 minutes
• Cook: 30 minutes
• Total: 45 minutes

Ingredients (Serves 4)

2 tbsp olive oil or butter

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 medium green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)

Salt & pepper, to taste

1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)

1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

2 (5-oz) cans tuna in water, drained

1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded mozzarella

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup almond flour or crushed pork rinds (for topping – optional)

Extra Parmesan or cheese for topping

‍ Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Sauté Veggies

In a large skillet, heat oil or butter over medium heat.

Add diced onion and cook until translucent (about 3–4 minutes).

Stir in garlic, then add sliced cabbage.

Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.

Sauté for 8–10 minutes, until cabbage is softened and lightly browned.

Combine with Tuna & Creamy Base

Turn off heat. Add in the drained tuna, sour cream (or cream cheese), heavy cream, and mozzarella.

Mix until everything is combined and creamy.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×9 or medium-sized casserole dish.

Sprinkle with Parmesan and almond flour or crushed pork rinds on top for a crispy crust. Add extra cheese if you like it super cheesy.

Bake

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until golden and bubbly on top.

Optional: Broil the last 2–3 minutes for a crispier top.

Serve Hot

Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Pair with a light salad or roasted veggies for a full meal.

✅ Tips for the Best Casserole

1. Drain the Tuna Well
   Excess moisture can make the casserole watery. Drain the tuna thoroughly before mixing.
2. Soften the Cabbage
   Sauté the cabbage until it’s soft and slightly caramelized. This adds sweetness and depth of flavor while reducing excess moisture.
3. Cheese Blend for Extra Flavor
   Feel free to use a blend of cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or Swiss for a richer taste alongside mozzarella and Parmesan.
4. Crispy Topping Hack
   For extra crunch, top the casserole with crushed pork rinds, almond flour mixed with Parmesan, or a mix of cheese and herbs before baking.
5. Meal Prep Friendly
   You can prep this ahead of time and refrigerate up to 2 days before baking. It also freezes well for up to 2 months!

Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick:
  Add red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a little hot sauce to the mix.
• Veggie Boost:
  Stir in chopped mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrients and texture.
• Dairy-Free Version:
  Use dairy-free cheese and swap sour cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative.
• Different Protein:
  Not a tuna fan? Substitute with shredded chicken, canned salmon, or leftover cooked turkey.
• Creamier Texture:
  Add a few ounces of softened cream cheese to the sauce for extra richness.
• Zesty Twist:
  A splash of lemon juice or a bit of lemon zest brightens the flavor beautifully and pairs great with tuna.

️ Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

Calories: 380

Fat: 28g

Protein: 25g

Net Carbs: 6g

Fiber: 2g