If you are craving a hearty, comforting dish without the carb overload, this Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe is just what you need on your dinner table. It combines the savory goodness of browned ground beef with tender cabbage and the bright, tangy flavors of tomato, all topped with melty mozzarella cheese. This warm and satisfying casserole is a perfect weeknight meal for anyone looking to enjoy classic comfort food with a lean, nutritious twist. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes for cozy dinners that won’t derail your low-carb lifestyle.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe together is delightfully straightforward, and each ingredient plays an important role in creating layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish so irresistible.
- 1 lb ground beef: The rich, hearty base providing protein and a satisfying meaty flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic to infuse the casserole with depth.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a slightly sweet, aromatic background note to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a punch of savory warmth that lifts the overall taste.
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups): Offers texture and absorbs all the juicy, tangy flavors.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Provides a fresh acidity that brightens the casserole.
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (no sugar added): Adds a smooth richness without extra carbs.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Imparts subtle smokiness and gentle warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Introduces an herbal note that complements the tomato and meat.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly on top, making the dish creamy and comforting.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh, colorful finish that brightens every bite.
How to Make Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Brown the Beef
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in your diced onion and let it soften gently for about 3 to 4 minutes, until it’s translucent and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds more—this keeps it from burning while unlocking its rich aroma. Next, add your ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until fully browned and no pink remains, stirring occasionally. This step builds the hearty base of the casserole with loving care.
Step 2: Add Cabbage and Tomatoes
Once your beef is perfectly browned, drain any excess fat from the pan to keep the dish light and healthy. Stir in the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Sprinkle in the paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good mix to combine all the flavors and coat the cabbage with the savory tomato sauce. Cover the skillet and allow it to simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens just right—tender but with a little bite left to enjoy.
Step 3: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Transfer the cabbage and beef mixture from the skillet into the dish, spreading it out evenly. This casserole is all about layering flavors that meld perfectly in the oven.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of your cabbage and beef mixture. Pop the dish into the oven uncovered and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbling hot. This step adds that irresistible cheesy finish that makes the casserole extra comforting and flavorful.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Once you take the casserole out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief pause helps the flavors settle and the cheese set just enough for perfect spoonfuls. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a touch of color and a fresh herbal note.
How to Serve Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens this dish wonderfully, adding a pop of green and a delicate herbal taste. For an extra layer of flavor, a dollop of sour cream or a few shreds of sharp cheddar cheese can take this casserole to new heights. These small finishing touches make an already fantastic meal feel special and inviting.
Side Dishes
This Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables elevates the experience by adding freshness and crunch. Steamed asparagus, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple cucumber salad would complement the rich, savory flavors perfectly without adding extra carbs.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets, topped with cheese and parsley before baking. This creates a cozy, personalized dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. You can also scoop it over cauliflower rice for a fun twist on classic rice dishes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for some seriously delicious next-day meals. Just be sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating to keep the texture intact.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and keep it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results and reheat gently.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to preserve that lovely melted cheese texture. Alternatively, a microwave works fine for busy days — just cover loosely and heat in short intervals to prevent the cheese from drying out.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works perfectly as a leaner alternative to beef and still delivers great flavor and texture in this casserole.
Is the cabbage fully cooked or is it a little crunchy?
The cabbage simmers in the skillet until it softens but still retains a bit of bite to keep some texture contrast in the casserole. It’s not mushy, which is part of what makes this dish so satisfying.
Can I add more cheese or use a different type?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of Parmesan for a different flavor profile. Just remember to keep the quantity balanced to maintain the low-carb focus.
Is this recipe suitable for keto diets?
This Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe fits well within most keto guidelines due to its low carbohydrate count and high protein and fat content. Just watch any optional add-ons for extra carbs.
What can I add for a spicier version?
To spice things up, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or mix in a splash of hot sauce before baking. These simple additions give the dish a zesty kick without overpowering the original flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly comforting and nourishing without compromising your healthy eating goals. Whether you’re new to low-carb cooking or a seasoned keto enthusiast, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple. Give it a try and savor every cheesy, savory bite!
Print
Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb, Gluten Free
Description
This Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that combines savory ground beef with tender cabbage and rich tomato flavors, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a healthy, gluten-free, and low-carb meal that comes together quickly on the stovetop and finishes baking in the oven.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (no sugar added)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its fragrance.
- Cook the beef: Add 1 lb ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until fully browned, then drain any excess fat to keep the dish lean.
- Add cabbage and tomatoes: Stir in the chopped cabbage, 1 can diced tomatoes, 1/2 cup tomato sauce, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- Simmer mixture: Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage softens and flavors meld.
- Prepare casserole: Transfer the cooked mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
- Rest and garnish: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For added richness, stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese before baking.
- You can substitute ground turkey or pork instead of beef for a different flavor or lower fat content.
- Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to give the dish a spicier kick.
