If you’re craving the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage without all the fuss, this Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender cabbage, savory ground meat, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with melty cheese for a cozy, satisfying meal. This dish is not only bursting with flavor but also keeps carbs low, making it perfect for anyone watching their intake without sacrificing taste or heartiness. It’s a vibrant one-dish wonder that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that create a beautiful balance of flavors and textures. Each component plays an important role in making this dish both hearty and healthy.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing to add a subtle fruity richness without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey): The savory protein base that adds depth and satisfying texture.
- 1 small onion (diced): Brings sweetness and aroma when cooked, adding complexity.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Boosts flavor with its unmistakable pungency and warmth.
- 1 small head green cabbage (chopped, about 6 cups): The star veggie, tender yet with a nice bite and low in carbs.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices): Adds juiciness and a bright, tangy element that balances richness.
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (no sugar added): Builds a saucy, comforting base without extra sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Imparts a gentle smoky depth that enhances the entire dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings an herbal note that brightens the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for drawing out flavors and seasoning everything perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and sharpness to balance the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little kick, this spices up the casserole.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top for creamy, gooey satisfaction.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty finish that complements mozzarella.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and mild herbaceous flavor.
How to Make Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. If there’s excess fat, drain it away for a leaner dish. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, letting them soften and become fragrant for 2 to 3 minutes. This step lays the flavorful foundation by infusing the meat with sweet and savory aromatics.
Step 2: Cook the Cabbage
Next, stir in the chopped cabbage. Cook it with the meat and aromatics for about 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll notice the cabbage starts to soften and shrink, releasing its subtle sweetness and taking on the savory essence from the skillet. This gradual wilting makes sure your casserole has tender bites that still have some texture.
Step 3: Add the Tomato Elements and Seasonings
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the unsweetened tomato sauce. Season generously with smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and if you like, a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for another 5 minutes. This step allows all those layered flavors to meld into a rich, comforting base ready for baking.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the flavorful mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure every bite is delicious. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered in a 375°F oven for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and slightly golden around the edges. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving—a little patience makes the cheese set to perfection.
How to Serve Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds not just a vibrant splash of green but also a fresh herbal note that cuts through the richness of the cheese. For a touch of zest, a little squeeze of lemon over the top right before serving brightens the entire dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe shines as a complete meal on its own, but you can round it out with a crisp green salad or steamed low-carb veggies like asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts. A side of cauliflower rice also makes a lovely, filling option that keeps your meal keto-friendly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant dinner, serve individual portions in small ramekins and garnish with parsley and a few thinly sliced red chilies for a pop of color and heat. Or scoop it onto lettuce wraps for a fun, hands-on twist that adds crunch and freshness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers into an airtight container. When you heat it back up, you’ll find the flavors have even deepened, making your next meal just as delightful as the first.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe ahead for busy days, freezing is a great option. After baking and cooling completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire dish tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep the cheese melty and the cabbage tender. You can also microwave individual servings covered with a damp paper towel, stirring halfway through for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully and is a lighter option that pairs perfectly with the cabbage and tomato sauce in this casserole.
Is this casserole suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, it’s a fantastic keto-friendly dish. The low carb count and high protein and fat content make it a great fit for ketogenic meal plans.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even cauliflower rice for extra nutrition and texture without adding many carbs.
Do I have to bake the casserole after assembling?
Baking melts the cheese and melds the flavors perfectly, but if you’re short on time, you can skip baking and just serve the cooked mixture topped with shredded cheese. It won’t have that golden bubbly top, but it’ll still taste great.
What can I substitute for mozzarella and Parmesan cheese?
Cheddar, provolone, or a dairy-free cheese alternative can be used if you prefer. Just choose a cheese that melts well to keep the casserole creamy.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe a try soon. It’s such a heartwarming dish that comes together easily and satisfies with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or just want a cozy, low carb dinner, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
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Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb, Gluten Free, Keto
Description
This Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole is a flavorful, keto-friendly dinner option featuring ground beef, tender cabbage, and a blend of tomatoes and cheeses. It’s an easy, comforting casserole that comes together quickly and bakes to perfection with melted mozzarella and Parmesan topping. Ideal for low-carb, gluten-free, and keto diets, this dish is perfect for weeknight meals or meal prepping.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
Tomato Base and Spices
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (no sugar added)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheese Toppings and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking after the skillet preparation.
- Cook the ground beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary to keep the dish lean.
- Sauté aromatics: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the browned beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Cook the cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing it to soften and shrink while blending with the meat and aromatics.
- Add tomatoes and spices: Incorporate the diced tomatoes with juices, tomato sauce, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Transfer to baking dish: Move the cabbage and beef mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add cheese toppings: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake the casserole: Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
- Rest and garnish: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- This recipe is keto-friendly and reheats well, making it great for meal prep.
- For extra volume and nutrients, add cauliflower rice or chopped bell peppers when cooking the cabbage.
- Use ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives to suit your dietary preferences.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to control heat level.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
