Paleo
Jump to VideoThis zucchini casserole with tuna and green chiles is paleo and Whole 30 approved, high protein, and low carb. Wholesome and healthy, this zucchini noodles dinner is a great way to use your spiralizer and boost your nutrition.
*This Tuna Green Chili Zoodle Casserole recipe is sponsored by my friends over at safe catch! Thank you for allowing me to share their quality canned tuna products and talk about this caring company.*
I’ve just solved the worlds problems with a zoodle casserole. Just kidding. I wish. But really, I did find a pretty nifty solution to a first world dilemma. Yes! My mission in life…. to help a picky eater (or any food allergy eater) sneak in extra veggies and pump up their Omega 3’s without them even knowing! Well, this EASY PEASY Paleo tuna green chile zoodle casserole is gonna solve all that today! Comfort food made healthy (and gluten free). Now allow me to explain.
You see, you can’t beat homemade comfort food, right? Gah, this is my childhood. Haha, I am sure you can relate. Casseroles with cream of chicken or mushroom soup, noodles, cheese, and some sort of meat. Yep, I am an 80’s Child. The funny thing is my husband has no idea what tuna noodle casserole is (let alone a zoodle casserole), which is why I (yet again) was itchin’ to remake this dish… in a paleo zoodle way. But minus canned cream soup, for his sake! Haha. Besides, zucchini noodles are a zoodlerific replacement in EVERYTHING!
I’m also starting to see a Cotter Crunch healthy comfort food Trend here ya’ll…. in the form of Crock Pot Meals, Casseroles, and anything Spiralized. To be honest, I think it’s the easiest and tastiest way to get more bang for your gluten free buck. So I decided I’m going to try to keep the trend going. I’m sure you don’t mind, right? Besides, I’m getting my money’s worth with my spiralizer. LOVE IT!
Anyway, this zoodle casserole also such a great recipe for using what you have on hand.
Like canned tuna and zucchini. But not just any canned tuna, amazing CANNED tuna that is all the things canned tuna should be. SAFE!
You all remember my love for low mercury sustainable SAFE CATCH TUNA? Well… I still love it, even more so now. Which is why today I’m partnering with Safe Catch Foods to bring you all a “safe” and easy Whole 30 friendly RECIPE! A Paleo tuna zoodle recipe because that’s just fun tot say.
Ohhh don’t you go run off now, thinking this is going to be too hard or too healthy. Trust me on this. Trust your crazy Cotter. I don’t mess around when it comes to healthy comfort food. Quintessential comfort food to be exact.
This dish IS EPIC. Green chile, Tuna, zoodles (aka spiralized zucchini), and a spicy paleo mayo come together to make this casserole super simple yet super tasty. Full of healthy fats, vegetables, and packed with pure complete protein and amino acids for those muscles. You can even flex those muscles while you make it. Totally allowed.
Uhh, ya, but don’t tell grandma….. I think I got her beat on this tuna noodle casserole upgrade. Just sayin…
Paleo Tuna Green Chile Zucchini Casserole (1 Minute Video)
What I love most about this dish is that even thought it’s labeled as Whole 30 and Paleo, it truly tastes like mama’s homecookin! Kid friendly, adult in BIG KID form approved. Like for reals.
Serve in mass quantities for a crowd. Serve it up in single bowl servings. Serve it up now or later (it keeps well in the fridge for days!). Just try it out and see for yourself. I accept any and all feedback.
Friends, we are about a month away from a season of REAL comfort food, childhood food favorites, holiday shenanigans, and all things FALL. I suggest you start practicing now… in a “healthified” kind of way. You know, so you can enjoy more of it without your arteries having a heart attack. Ack! I just pulled the nutritionist card! Sorry not sorry. But in all seriousness, get your casserole baking skills on today!
for those who are starting Whole 30 next week, this is one a tasty EASY dish to ease your way in. Promise Promise! And if you need more low carb zoodle casseroles ideas, check out Food Faith Fitness Spiralized Zucchini Casserole! Light and delish!
Now let’s go get our safe catch on and chow down on this Tuna Green Chili Zucchini Casserole! Mmm k?
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Zucchini Casserole with Tuna (zucchini noodles)
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 15 -20 min
- Total Time: -25971529.066667 minute
- Yield: 6 1x
Print Recipe
Pin RecipeDescription
This zucchini casserole with tuna and green chiles is paleo and Whole 30 approved, high protein, and low carb. Just like mom’s tuna noodle casserole, but MUCH healthier, with zucchini noodles!
Ingredients
- Three 6–7 in zucchini (see notes for prep)
- Two 5 oz canned tuna (we used low mercury Safe Catch Tuna Elite)
- 4 oz of diced green chiles (no additive canned works)
- 1/2 c real mayo with olive oil or we use Primal Kitchen Chipotle Mayo (no additives or sugar added) *add 1/4 c more if you want extra creamy
- 2 tbsp chopped chives (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 tsp seasoning salt of choice or natural sea salt with dehydrated garlic or onion added (primal palate has a great selection)
- 1 tbsp organic mustard (spicy or regular without added sugar. Annie’s Organic is Whole30)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 c chopped onion (peeled)
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1 tbsp avocado or olive oil
- 2 tbsp coconut flour or tapioca starch (Almond flour works too but does not hold together as well as other flours)
- 1/2 cup coconut milk or cream without additives (see notes for alternatives)
- 1/2 tsp chili pepper or red pepper flakes
- Parsley to garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Wash and clean your veggies.
- Preheat oven to 350F
- Oil a 9x 13 shallow casserole dish. Set aside.
- Ribbon cut or spiralize your zucchini into noodles. Press/Squeeze as much excess water out of them as you can. You can do so with a paper towel. Set aside. (see notes on how to remove excess water from zucchini noodles first)
- In another bowl, combine your tuna (drained), mayo, green chiles, chives, mustard, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly. Set aside.
- Oil a medium skillet. Add in your onion and celery and seasoning of choice. Cook for about 6 minute so medium or until onion brown a bit.
- Next add your coconut flour and milk to the skillet. Stir together with the celery and onion mix until no longer clumpy. this basically acts as a thickener. It’s okay if it’s not a smooth mixture, just make sure it’s mixable when adding to the zucchini noodles..
- Add your zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss all together. Cover and let the noodles and mix cook together for 1 or 2 minutes on medium heat until zucchini is softened but not thoroughly cooked. Don’t let it get soggy
- NOTE –> Try to press out ALL water from tuna and zucchini before mixing all together. You don’t want the casserole to have too much liquid
- Remove skillet from heat and pour contents into a large bowl.
- Mix your tuna/green chile mix in the same large bowl (with the zoodles/milk/onion mix).
- Toss everything together.
- Pour mix from the large bowl into your casserole dish. Top with extra seasoning of choice.
- Bake for 10 -15 minutes or until edges are brown. If the casserole does not brown after 15 minutes, leave in an extra 5 -10 or until crispy edges.
- Broil last minute or so to make crispier edges.
- Remove from oven.
- Garnish with optional parsley, chives, and top with red chili pepper flakes.
- Serve immediately.
- Keeps well in sealed container in fridge for up to 1 week. Freezes for up to 6 weeks but will contain extra water once thawed out.
- See notes for tips and whole30 suggestions or regular Paleo options
Notes
- Regular PALEO options – If you are not needing whole30 approved, you can use almond milk and almond flour instead of the coconut flour/milk. You can also use a lighter mayo.
- Feel free to freeze this dish, but it will have extra water once thawed due to the zucchini. I simply add in more flour or a bit more fresh zucchini.
- Updated – If the coconut flour/milk mixture is too clumpy, try sifting your coconut flour beforehand. OR you can just add a few more tbsp coconut milk while mixing. You want this to be your “thickener” for the casserole. The flour will also add a little crunch when baked.
- ZUCCHINI NOODLE NOTES –> Try to press out ALL water from tuna and zucchini before mixing all together. You don’t want the casserole to have too much liquid. You can also place the zucchini noodles on a baking sheet and “bake” at 250F for 20-30min (depending on the thickness). Thanks to Reader Missy for this tip!
Please comment or email me if you have ANY questions!
- Whole30 Brands we use – Primal Palate Spices, Safe Catch Foods Tuna, Annie’s Homegrown Mustard (no sugar added), Primal Kitchen, Bob’s redmill coconut flour, Bob Red Mills Tapioca Starch.
- Category: dinner
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 209
- Sugar: 3.3g
- Sodium: 507mg
- Fat: 16.1g
- Saturated Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 6.6g
- Fiber: 2.4g
- Protein: 10.3g
- Cholesterol: 22.6mg
Keywords: zucchini casserole, tuna casserole, paleo, whole 30, healthy, dairy free
*Further notes –> all Safe Catch products are also Gluten free, paleo certified, Non-GMO certified, and BPA free. All of their products are wild and sustainably caught!
For those of you curious about WHOLE30. What is it? Who should do it? Etc.
What is Whole30?
Whole 30 is a 30-day elimination diet (like sugar, grains, dairy, and legumes). Its purpose is to find out which foods are having a negative impact on your health and to remedy that.
To be honest, I don’t participate in Whole30. I already have a specific diet for my current nutritional needs, which eliminates food allergies from time to time as needed.
That being said, I think if you are wanting to see if you are intolerant to certain foods (and are in the right body /mindset), then you can totally try Whole30! It’s good to be aware of how our body responds when we focus on real foods or lack of certain modern day food. Especially if you are having chronic health issues. If that makes sense? You can read Christine’s Whole30 experience about it as well! O
“Think of it as a short-term nutritional reset, designed to help you put an end to unhealthy cravings and habits, restore a healthy metabolism, heal your digestive tract, and balance your immune system.” – Whole30 Program
Okay friends, tell me…
Tuna noodle casserole. Did your mom make it? Would you try the zucchini casserole instead? You should. REALLY!
Keep up with this Safe Catch Foods (a Whole30 Approved Company) on social media. They are full of gluten free inspiration! Facebook , Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.
Cheers!
Hi, I’m Lindsay! Gluten Free Nutrition Specialist, food photographer and author of 
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Susie @ Suzlyfe says
August 24, 2016 at 5:36 AMI understand people who do Whole 30 if they are having specific problems. Then I respect it. But I don’t like how it is just trendy for some. But then again, who am I to judge! As long as people understand the whys of what they are doing, more power to them.
Now, THIS dish, I must try. We weren’t a big tuna household growing up, but I love it and you know I love zoodles, so BRING IT ON
Cotter Crunch says
August 24, 2016 at 7:03 AMexactly. It’s not a diet. It’s a quest for answers and for health reasons, for those who might need it. I don’t think it’s for everyone. yet we can’t judge that. Agreed! P
Erica M says
February 14, 2017 at 2:21 PMI did the Paleo diet to lose a little weight (I’m not overweight but had a bit of jiggle I wasnt happy with that wouldn’t go away no matter what I did) and stop eating so much to-go food. I lost 7 lbs in two weeks. Mind you, a lot of of that was water weight, but I lost it while completely full all the time and eating really delicious food. I didn’t even do any additional exercise.
Megan @ Skinny Fitalicious says
August 24, 2016 at 6:40 AMMy Mom used to make a tuna salad casserole thing with mayo and I cannot stand mayo. It turned me off so bad I never tried tuna until 3 years ago. Now I eat tuna all the time. Love this healthy version. I’m going to send it to my Mom!
Cotter Crunch says
August 24, 2016 at 7:01 AMhaha that’s how i was too! i still only like certain mayo. Have you tried primal kitchen chipotle mayo? OMG SOOOOOOOO GOOD!
RFC says
August 24, 2016 at 8:52 AMWhat would you suggest as a non meat substitution for tuna? Or perhaps just leave it out all together? This recipe looks so good!
Cotter Crunch says
August 24, 2016 at 9:05 AMthis would be great with tofu or tempeh or just garbanzo beans added. For sure! and instead of mayo, you can use a vegan sour cream or cashew cream. I have that recipe too!
Julia Mueller says
August 24, 2016 at 9:13 AMTuna noodle casserole was my faaaaavorite when I was a kid, no joke! And it’s been years since I’ve had it. I’m dying to try this healthy version – bring on those zoodles!
Cotter Crunch says
August 24, 2016 at 3:08 PMright? mine too!!! let’s have a party and make all our childhood favorites
Hannah @CleanEatingVeggieGirl says
August 24, 2016 at 10:14 AMI am SO beyond excited about this recipe… like almost a little TOO excited! I used to eat Tuna Helper (gross, I know) growing up and loved it. This reminds me of a much healthier, adult version!
Cotter Crunch says
August 24, 2016 at 2:51 PMit so taste like that but fresher!! i loved it! keep me posted, k?
Sam @ PancakeWarriors says
August 24, 2016 at 10:33 AMI feel like I need to give the Primal Kitchen mayo a try, but I HATE mayp. Like in anything. Ever. I wonder if I can come up for a fix for this. My family didnt’ do many casseroles growing up, I think my mom got grossed out by the cream of whatever soup. I guess I was destined to be a food quality snob! I do love this dish though. Maybe some mashed avocado and coconut milk will do the trick in place of the mayo/coconut milk mixture. I’ll let you know!
Cotter Crunch says
August 24, 2016 at 5:18 PMI don’t like mayo but i do like primal kitchen chipotle mayo! It’s the only one i really do like. So i get it!
Laura @ Sprint 2 the Table says
August 24, 2016 at 10:35 AMMy mom NEVER made tuna casserole… how weird is that for a Southerner?! She did make tuna salad every Sunday after church. I actually loved it! This looks like something I’d love too. Maybe I could even get Vegas to eat fish with this one… she love shellfish but getting her to eat fish is tough.
Shashi at RunninSrilankan says
August 24, 2016 at 11:30 AMI grew up eating my mom’s tuna casserole almost every week so I am a tuna casserole fan – and I happen to be a big veggie fan – so this casserole is a win win for me! Loving this zoodlerific casserole and the healthy veggie kick you have been on! Hope your feeling better!
Cotter Crunch says
August 24, 2016 at 5:28 PMOMG so funny, me too! Don’t tell mom I butchered the homemade version to make healthy! hehe
GiGi Eats says
August 24, 2016 at 11:46 AMThis creation speaks to me. Especially that ELITE TUNA, because I mean… I AM ELITE AF… So I only eat ELITE things?
LOl. Er, um. Actually not really… I mean, I feel like a lot of people would think salmon skin to be “scraps”.
Cotter Crunch says
August 24, 2016 at 5:27 PMyou are totally elite! GiGi ELITE EATS! and salmon skin is not scraps. it’s BLISS! GOLD! i support you
Alexa says
August 24, 2016 at 12:33 PMI have been at a loss as to what to do with all the zucchini we’ve picked. Not anymore. I LOVE that I don’t have to adapt this to be dairy-free.
Cotter Crunch says
August 24, 2016 at 5:23 PMThanks Alexa!
Macy @ Paleo Crumbs says
August 24, 2016 at 1:43 PMThis looks SO good! I love your spin on such a classic comfort food!
Johnna says
August 24, 2016 at 3:47 PMWhat a terrific use of zoodles!
Cotter Crunch says
August 24, 2016 at 4:53 PMThank you Johanna
Cotter Crunch says
August 24, 2016 at 4:53 PMWhoops! I mean johnna
Blair says
August 24, 2016 at 4:08 PMMmmm…I love healthified comfort food! Tuna Noodle Casserole was a favorite when I was growing up. This sounds delicious!
Katie says
August 24, 2016 at 4:16 PMI really dislike mayo but love the idea of this dish. Do you think I could substitute yogurt? Or hummus, or just eggs maybe?
Cotter Crunch says
August 24, 2016 at 5:26 PMtotally! the yogurt would work well or sour cream. Keep me posted!
Jody - Fit at 58 says
August 24, 2016 at 5:27 PMWe have had various versions of tuna stuff thru my young years. Now I add just like my turkey meatloaf, some salsa, spices & mustard to it & eat cold. I wish some of these healthier versions were less expensive. AS much as I want to buy, I can’t afford 3.5 – $4 plus per can.
Cotter Crunch says
August 25, 2016 at 7:37 AMI totally understand. I wish our health wasn’t as expensive sometimes. But you do what’s best for you! <3
sarah says
August 24, 2016 at 6:07 PMOh, I haven’t had tuna noodle casserole in years! Sounds delicious. As the fourth of five kids I was raised on casseroles due to a limited family budget. Tuna noodle only happened when my dad went on a business trip because she could not stand the smell of tuna. As a child I wasn’t much of a tuna fan either but, pasta? Sign me up. Plus, as an added bonus, my mom topped it with crumbled potato chips which she never bought otherwise. Good memories (though I no longer like chips and do like tuna) so this recipe is pinned!
Cotter Crunch says
August 25, 2016 at 7:36 AMOMG potato chip topping? GENIUS!
Katie says
August 24, 2016 at 7:50 PMI HATED when my mom made tuna noodle casserole. HATED it. It was gross – egg noodles with cubes of cheese and tuna and peas and mAYO which i detest.
That said, this looks delicious! I usually use silken tofu blended with some lemon juice instead of mayo and it always works great.
I’m contemplating starting the whole30, but I really just need something to kick my ass into gear to get me to stop eating so much sugar. The rest of the rules aren’t really my cup of tea and it seems overly restrictive. I think I’ll do a Katie-version instead, where I can eat condiments that have tiny amounts of sugar in them (because COME ON like I’m giving up sriracha for a month??!!? HAHAHAHA right.)
Cotter Crunch says
August 24, 2016 at 8:01 PMI think Katie version is better! Just less sugar. But I’m sure you don’t eat that much. Haha. Maybe try for a week and see? Are you wanting to find out health issues? Update me
Alisa Fleming says
August 24, 2016 at 7:54 PMOoh, this recipe has my name all over it! I saw that tuna at the store, too, and will have to pick up some to try.
Cotter Crunch says
August 25, 2016 at 7:47 AMlet me know if you do!
Erin @ Erin's Inside Job says
August 24, 2016 at 9:21 PMI need to get some more tuna in my life. I haven’t had in awhile. This looks delicious btw. Send me some 🙂
Cotter Crunch says
August 25, 2016 at 7:38 AMhave you tried safe catch? I will send you some and you send me almond butter. k? hehe
Megan @ MegUnprocessed says
August 25, 2016 at 7:33 AMThose veggies look great!
Karly says
August 25, 2016 at 8:59 AMOh, spiralizing. How I’ve come to adore you. This casserole is dinner perfection- healthy without skipping out on flavor! Cqn’t wait to try this out!
Cheyanne @ No Spoon Necessary says
August 25, 2016 at 11:37 AMI have to be honest… I just drooled all over your site. 😉 Seriously, when I saw this on FB I could NOT click the link fast enough to come check this out and hit PRINT. I am SOOOO doing this for dinner on Monday! I’d say today, but I legit just ate the last stick of dang celery. Grrrrr. Can’t WAIT to try this, chicka! Beyond deliciousness up in here! PINNED! Cheers!
Jolene says
August 28, 2016 at 1:41 PMYUM!! This looks fantastic!!
Cotter Crunch says
August 28, 2016 at 7:16 PMthank you friend!
Cassie says
August 31, 2016 at 10:38 AMI’ve never really grown up with casseroles! I love that you’ve added zucchini noodles for some extra color!
Cotter Crunch says
September 1, 2016 at 5:13 PMwell i think it’s time you try! yes!
Beckers says
September 2, 2016 at 11:32 AMCan you make this with chicken, instead? I love tuna just not hot, lol.
Cotter Crunch says
September 2, 2016 at 12:51 PMyou sure can! I would use chicken sausage maybe. Pre cooked. Let me know whatcha think!
Jo Carter says
September 10, 2016 at 12:07 PMYUM, this looks absolutely incredible. I haven’t had any casserole in months because I always over indulge (noodle addict) but just got a spiralizer so this shall be a hit!
Cotter Crunch says
September 10, 2016 at 2:34 PMwonderful! keep me posted Jo!
Rachel says
September 13, 2016 at 10:36 AMHow does the zucchini hold up during the sweating/baking process? I’m always weary of zoodle recipes because the zucchini has SO MUCH WATER sometimes. Does it affect the casserole at all in the end? Thanks!
Cotter Crunch says
September 13, 2016 at 11:52 AMdefinitely squeeze out the excess water after spirlalizing. You don’t bake it that long. It worked great! I’ll make sure to update the notes on this recipe. Thanks Ranchel. Let me know if you try it.
Vanessa says
April 9, 2017 at 5:57 PMI’ll update with this answer – the zucchini DEFINITELY needs to be squeezed, and the recipe is not updated to reflect that very important piece. I made the mistake of not squeezing (since it is not indicated) and I had to bake for 20 minutes and broil for 5 minutes to get it to brown. Now out of the oven and the whole thing has a layer of water in the middle.
Cotter Crunch says
April 9, 2017 at 7:30 PMso sorry about that! Just updated the recipe.
Tanya Jones says
September 30, 2016 at 3:13 AMI had troubles with this recipe, for one some of the ingredients in the list were never mentioned in the instructions so I guessed when to add them, like the chili flakes, and diced Green chilis. Also when I added the coconut milk and coconut flour it just clumped up! It definitely was not enough liquid, recipe called for 1/2 cup coconut milk I used almost the entire can. It’s still cooking so hopefully it turns out ok.
Cotter Crunch says
September 30, 2016 at 7:21 AMI’m so sorry to hear this Tanya! How did it turn out? Thank you for updating me on this. I will definitely fix the recipe.
The coconut flour is just a thickener, do you can use any flour really. I used coconut to keep it whole30.
Katie says
October 22, 2016 at 12:48 PMI need to make this. Or even better, let someone make it for me…but since that’s not an option, make it for myself! 😉 Life and work are going to get INSANE within the next couple weeks so make ahead meals like this are going to be SO necessary!
Cotter Crunch says
October 22, 2016 at 2:46 PMI think you should move here
Janette says
November 8, 2016 at 3:31 AMQuick question your recipe calls for 14 tsp of pepper is that a typo and should real 1/4 tsp? Thanks
Cotter Crunch says
November 8, 2016 at 7:21 AMthanks for catching that! Yes, just updated. 1/4 tsp. LOL!
Kelli H (Made in Sonoma) says
December 23, 2016 at 12:40 AMMade this tonight and my husband and I LOVED it. I’ll definitely be making this again. It came out perfect and had great flavor. It only made about 3 large servings for us though…we love to eat. haha. Thanks for the healthier tasting spin on a classic.
Cotter Crunch says
December 23, 2016 at 8:40 AMthat’s awesome Kelli!! it’s one of our favorites too! YUM!
Cotter Crunch says
December 23, 2016 at 8:40 AMoh and yes, it’s rich but smaller servings. I should mention to double recipe or make two batches for most people. Thanks for feedback.
Fix Your Skin says
January 16, 2017 at 2:31 AMYumm..It sounds great, great blogging with excellent recipes!
Kim says
January 30, 2017 at 8:07 PMMade this tonight and everyone loved it. Instead of using flour and coconut milk, I used just the cream that had floated to the top of the can of coconut milk and no flour. Also added sautéed mushroom and peas (Not Whole30 approved, but I don’t have an issue with legumes).
Cotter Crunch says
January 30, 2017 at 9:24 PMPeas sound like a great addition! And I love mushroom so much! Good choice
Donna says
February 16, 2017 at 5:46 PMThe recipe says to cook for 3-5 minutes. Is this correct?
Cotter Crunch says
February 16, 2017 at 6:49 PMyep, it’s super quick since you use canned tuna. You basically are just heating everything and browning it a tad. You can do longer if you’d like. Does that make sense?
KD says
January 30, 2017 at 8:23 PMStumbled upon this recipe by googling “paleo zucchini tuna” (can you guess what I only had left in my fridge…) and glad I tried it. I ended up making one serving with my homemade thousand island dressing, shreddred zucchini, roasted cauliflower and almond milk instead of coconut milk. Didn’t even use onions or celeries and just threw everything into a mini baking dish. Not sure how the original tastes like, but mine was very flavorful and filling. Thanks! 🙂
Cotter Crunch says
January 30, 2017 at 9:23 PMThat’s awesome!! Glad it came together nicely. Love this recipe too
Melissa says
March 15, 2017 at 9:00 PMMy family enjoyed this casserole tonight. I sprinkled some nutritional yeast on top before baking. The ingredients list contains chives, but they are not mentioned in the instructions.
Cotter Crunch says
March 15, 2017 at 10:23 PMoh thank you! I will update!
Erin says
March 22, 2017 at 8:39 PMMade tonight! Whole family loved it and had second helpings. Thanks for recipe
Cotter Crunch says
March 22, 2017 at 10:21 PMso glad Erin! it’s one of our favorites too!
Lila says
April 4, 2017 at 10:17 PMWas the cooking time a typo? I cooked for 30 minutes covered and then a few minutes uncovered and it was perfect!
Cotter Crunch says
April 5, 2017 at 6:25 AMOh glad it worked out. No i actually just cook it for 5 minutes to get top crusty and warm. But cooking longer is NO prob! Just depends on your preference.
Brenda Campbell says
June 2, 2017 at 10:59 AMSo excited to try this recipe! It’s going on this week’s menu plan! Just wondering if you have a print “button” for the recipe? I can’t seem to see it and I like having a paper copy to work from to keep cooking messiness off my computer screen :o) I tend to be a messy cook! Thanks in advance.
Cotter Crunch says
June 2, 2017 at 1:55 PMjust sent you an email with the print button details. Let me know if you got it! xxoo
Beth says
June 17, 2017 at 11:24 PMI follow a low fodmap diet and came across this recipe. It turned out so well and my husband loved it too (not always a given for low fodmap recipes!). Thank you for sharing these great ideas!
Cotter Crunch says
June 17, 2017 at 11:35 PMWonderful! so glad! It’s a fav here too. Let me know if you need any other recipes.
Kristen King says
July 13, 2017 at 1:58 PMIs it just me, or is this dish extremely spicy? Maybe I included the wrong green chiles, but my nose was running due to the heat levels. That aside, it turned out fine (looked like the picture). However, I had to squirt some lime over my plate to cut that spice. This is not for those with acid reflux (which isn’t me, but I worry for them).
Additionally, why no mushrooms? After that fact, I decided that mushrooms would be great in this, so I shall add.
Thanks for the recipes, it’s always fun to try something new. I died laughing when I took the first bite and realized I would die of spice…there are worse ways to go.
Cotter Crunch says
July 13, 2017 at 2:53 PMOh im sorry! Did you buy the mild green chiles or the spicy? Maybe that was it. And yes, I love the addition of mushrooms. I just didn’t add it because my husband hates mushrooms. He’s crazy! LOL!
Rebecca says
August 8, 2017 at 10:39 PMI always love the flavor combinations you come up with, always so unique and delicious and this green chile and tuna combo doesn’t disappoint. What a tasty looking dish!
Cotter Crunch says
August 9, 2017 at 9:07 AMthanks friend
Abby says
September 4, 2017 at 1:33 PMThis was awesome!
Missy says
January 20, 2018 at 2:37 PMHi there lady,
First of all thanks for posting this because this recipe has me going crazy for more! I absolutely LOVE tuna casserole and I mean it. When I started low carb-ing my usual go-to recipe had to go, along with everything else I love. So, this gem right here made my day! I changed some stuff up just to increase fat content, but I am sure it is lovely just as you made it. For the increased fat I used organic heavy cream and a stick of pasture fed butter 🙂 (yeeeeessss) Also, to get the zoodles dry I pre-baked them on a cookie sheet at 250F for 25 min. And yes, I did throw in some ‘shrooms in it, because as far as I am concerned ‘shrooms go in everything delicious! Thanks again!
Lindsay Cotter says
January 20, 2018 at 8:54 PMOMG that’s genius! Do you mind me putting those baked zoodle tips in recipe notes? I’ll tag you. and love the mushrooms! I didn’t add because my husband hates mushrooms. He’s crazy. LOL!
Missy says
January 20, 2018 at 9:17 PMOh man, my kiddo hates them as well, but I put them in everything anyway haha. And of course! I made a soup with zoodles sometime ago and that was a part of the recipe, I really cannot take any credit for that! The whole process was to salt them lightly, let them “rest” between paper towels for 5 min or so, then lay them out in a single layer on a parchment paper lined cookie sheet (single layer is crucial, I have tried to speed it up and it did not work as well), lastly “bake” at 250F for 20-30min (depending on the thickness), I did 25 for my skinny zucchinis and it was perfect. They become perfect, maintaining their texture and form (not cooked or soggy). I made the casserole this afternoon and it is gone… pretty sure I am 10 lbs heavier, but oh so happy! Lastly, I love your page and will definitely try more things (the pear cake… OMG!)!
Cotter Crunch says
January 20, 2018 at 9:37 PMHaha I love you already
Stephanie says
June 27, 2018 at 12:08 PMAny subs for the green chilies? They can be hard to find where I live. Would 1 or 2 seeded regular jalapenos work?
Lindsay Cotter says
June 27, 2018 at 4:04 PMI think so! Or even roasted red peppers, canned and diced. Does that make sense? I like the idea of jalapenos or even pickled jalapenos is a jar. Sliced.
Kim Balla says
August 2, 2018 at 6:58 PMThis was amazing. I was so worried my tuna casserole with all the mushroom soup husband would hate it. He had two helpings and loved it. Really good recipe. Thank you!
★★★★★
Lindsay Cotter says
August 3, 2018 at 11:12 AMOh I am so glad! It’s a favorite here too Kim!
Marion says
August 15, 2018 at 7:33 PMThis recipe was amazing although it did take a lot longer to make than the 15 min prep and 15 min in the oven. Especially the spiralizing. I had been uncertain how this would turn out, but had zucchini from my garden to use. (Always on the hunt for more zucchini recipes.) Also, a medium skillet is too small for tossing the zucchini with the sauce. I used a 14″ one instead. Both my husband and I were pleased with how it turned out and I’ll definitely make it again.
★★★★
Lindsay Cotter says
August 15, 2018 at 8:21 PMOh thank you for letting me know. We make it a lot so it’s super quick, but I totally get it! I will update the recipe. And so fun! Love the fresh zucchini!
Charity says
August 19, 2018 at 5:34 PMHi!
I used this recipe for inspiration as I had a bunch of yellow zucchini from the garden that needed using and I loosely follow a keto/ low carb diet. So when I found this recipe I was excited because I love a casserole , I’ve made lots of low carb casseroles and this is definitely one of the best and tastiest!
I followed the recipe but added some things.
I baked the zoodles and squeezed them so I had no excess water so that’s a great tip!
I added parsley ,the dry onions and celery heart leaves to the tuna mayo mixture with everything else.
And in the saute mixture I did a whole onion added some sweet red peppers ,a spicy cubanelle pepper and diced portabello mushroom I had in the fridge because they needed using but I’m so glad I did because they added beautiful flavor. I increased the cream a bit since I added all the extra vegetables and I sifted and whisked the coconut flour into the cream before I added it to the sauteed mixture and it was perfectly smooth and mixed in perfect, no lumps or clumps at all so I’d suggest doing that.
Then I sprinkled the top with nutritional yeast like another commenter. It came out delicious, I actually said yum out loud when I took the first bite 😋 thank you so much for coming up with this ,it’s so super yummy, and since I got local, wild, sustainable oceanwise tuna is doubley guilt free!!💗💗💗
★★★★★
Niki says
September 7, 2018 at 12:00 AMSpook good
★★★★★
Carrie says
September 11, 2018 at 11:40 AMI made this last night for dinner and I’m having leftovers now for my lunch. It turned out great. It’s also easily adaptable for whatever you have that needs used up in the fridge. For me it definitely took longer then the 15 minutes of prep time. I made it as directed except for the following: I spiralized the noodles first and tossed them with a little salt to sweat them and occasionally tossed them while I was prepping everything else, I just used less salt when I seasoned the rest of the meal. Then right before I put everything together I squeezed all the water out and spread it out on paper towels and blotted them. I also added some dried mushrooms because I thought they would also soak up some of the moisture. At the end before I put it in the oven I dotted the top with cashew cheese, I use Treeline Herb-garlic flavor but Kite Hill would also be wonderful . It all turned out great. My daughter who doesn’t like zucchini noodles liked it as well. If you are missing the peas because you don’t do peas anymore you can buy thin asparagus that are about as big around as a pea and then dice them into pea sized shapes. I do that for my pot pies and it works well. If you wanted to try something different bits of artichoke might taste good with the creaminess of the dish. I was almost tempted to use canned chicken because I had it on hand. I had to go to the store anyway so I bought Tuna and I’m glad I did, but chicken would work too if that’s all you had or didn’t like tuna. Thank you for the dish I’m sure I’ll be making it more in the future.
★★★★★
Lindsay Cotter says
September 11, 2018 at 3:36 PMOh i love all your suggestions, thank you! I will update prep time too. What a great idea for the artichoke Carrie!
Lauren says
September 25, 2018 at 8:35 PMThis was fabulous! I sautéed the zucchini first because I was sacred about it being too watery. Used a 9×9 and used my own chipotle ranch recipe! Husband approved!
★★★★★
Lindsay Cotter says
September 26, 2018 at 11:02 PMOh yay! I’m so glad you all enjoyed Lauren!
Lindsay Cotter says
September 26, 2018 at 11:02 PMPs
I need that ranch yum 😋
Jade says
October 2, 2018 at 2:37 PMMade this last night, it was great, had a great flavor. I baked the zucchini beforehand as suggested, but still came out a little watery. I didn’t mind too much though, was still delicious.
★★★★
Lindsay Cotter says
October 3, 2018 at 10:04 AMOh thank you for that feedback Jade! I so appreciate it!
Susan says
October 14, 2018 at 8:56 PMThis was delicious! On a cold autumn evening, with snowing falling, I wanted something that would be healthy, follow my dietary needs, as well as satisfy my desire for “comfort food.” I decided to try this recipe out. I am so glad I did!!! My husband and I very much enjoyed this tuna zoodle casserole. I highly recommend! This will become a regular over the winter months in my house. Thanks!
★★★★
Lindsay Cotter says
October 14, 2018 at 11:16 PMOh I am so glad! yes so cozy for this cold weather!
Elsa says
November 30, 2018 at 6:29 PMMy whole family loves this tuna casserole!
★★★★★
Mattison says
December 29, 2018 at 7:13 PMDelicious! We made with the chipotle mayo and no chilies, and it still had a nice kick. Highly recommend!
★★★★★
Polly says
March 26, 2019 at 11:00 AMA little labor intensive, but mine is in the oven and I CAN’T WAIT to eat it. I was born in 1966 and grew up on tuna noodle casserole. Of course mine isn’t as pretty as yours…:D