There’s something deeply soothing about a casserole bubbling away in the oven, especially when it’s packed with creamy, cheesy goodness and tender tuna. I remember the first time I made this keto tuna casserole with peas—it was one of those evenings when the world felt a little too loud, and I just needed a quiet moment in the kitchen. The smell of sautéed onions and garlic filled the air, mingling with melted cheese and a hint of smoked paprika. I wasn’t quite sure if I had stirred the sauce enough or if it was the right thickness, but I decided to trust the process anyway. When it came out golden and bubbly, the first bite was everything I didn’t know I needed: creamy, savory, and just a little bit comforting in that imperfect, homey way.
Why You’ll Love It:
- It’s a low-carb twist on a classic comfort dish, perfect for anyone watching their carbs but craving rich flavors.
- The creamy cheese sauce balances the lightness of peas and tuna, creating a harmonious blend that doesn’t feel heavy.
- Easy to make with ingredients you probably already have—no complicated steps, just cozy cooking.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. No fuss, just a satisfying meal that warms you up.
If you’re a bit nervous about making casseroles from scratch, don’t worry. This one is forgiving, and the creamy sauce is pretty hard to mess up. Plus, leftovers reheat well, so it’s great for busy weeknights or a quick lunch the next day.
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Keto Tuna Casserole with Peas
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A low-carb, creamy keto tuna casserole made with tender tuna, fresh peas, and a cheesy sauce, perfect for a comforting and healthy meal.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 (5-ounce) can tuna packed in water, drained and flaked
1 cup fresh or frozen peas, thawed
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and cream cheese until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until well combined.
Fold in the flaked tuna and peas until evenly distributed.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 8×8-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Kitchen Notes: I usually make this casserole in a straightforward baking dish—nothing fancy required. It’s the kind of recipe where the equipment is less important than the cozy feel it gives you. When serving, a crisp green salad or some roasted veggies balances the richness nicely. For a bit of variety, you could swap peas for green beans or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat. I haven’t tested all variations, but sometimes I toss in some chopped mushrooms or even a handful of spinach before baking, just to sneak in extra greens.
FAQ:
Can I use canned peas or frozen peas? Fresh or frozen peas work best, but canned peas would do in a pinch if drained well.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? It’s best fresh or refrigerated for a few days; freezing might affect the texture of the creamy sauce.
What if I don’t have all the cheeses listed? You can mix and match with what you have—sharp cheddar and mozzarella are pretty essential, but Parmesan is optional.
This casserole is one of those dishes that quietly becomes a favorite over time. It’s not flashy but it’s genuine. So if you’re craving something warm and unpretentious tonight, give this keto tuna casserole a try—you might find yourself coming back to it more often than you expect.