If you’ve been searching for a comforting dish that’s both hearty and healthy, let me introduce you to the Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe. This casserole beautifully captures the rich flavors of a traditional stuffed cabbage but without the fuss of rolling, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Packed with ground beef, tender cabbage, and a blend of vibrant spices, every bite bursts with warmth and satisfaction while keeping carbs in check. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a classic flavor profile with a modern, low-carb twist that the whole family will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, balancing flavor, texture, and color to create a dish that is as appetizing as it is nourishing.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a rich, fruity base and helps sauté ingredients evenly without overpowering flavors.
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey): Provides robust protein and creates the hearty element essential to the casserole.
- 1 small onion (diced): Offers a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth to the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Delivers a punch of flavor that wakes up every other ingredient.
- 1 small head green cabbage (chopped, about 6 cups): Brings a satisfying crunch and loads the casserole with fiber and nutrients.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices): Adds juiciness and a tangy complexity that complements the meat and cabbage.
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (no sugar added): Enhances the tomato flavor with a smooth texture and natural sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces subtle smokiness that elevates the savory profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings hints of Mediterranean herbal freshness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and intensifying all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A little spark of spice to awaken your palate.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create a creamy, gooey topping.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Boosts savory depth with its nutty, salty character.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Provides a fresh, vibrant color contrast and a hint of herbaceous brightness.
How to Make Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics
Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef (or turkey) and cook while breaking it up with a spoon until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. This step is crucial as it builds the base flavor for your casserole by caramelizing the meat’s natural juices. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat to keep the dish light. Then stir in diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and release their inviting aroma.
Step 2: Cook the Cabbage
Next, toss in the chopped green cabbage. Cook it with the meat and aromatics for about 5 to 7 minutes until it begins to soften and reduce in volume. This softening process helps meld the cabbage’s natural sweetness and slight crunchiness into the savory base, setting the perfect texture foundation for the casserole. It’s one of those steps that transforms raw veggies into a beautifully blended layer of flavor.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Spices
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices plus the no-sugar-added tomato sauce. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and if you like a little heat, red pepper flakes. Stir everything thoroughly so the spices and tomatoes coat the meat and cabbage evenly. Let the mixture cook on medium-low for another five minutes to marry the flavors together and gently thicken the sauce. This step is vital for that rich, comforting taste that makes this Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe so memorable.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then transfer the cabbage and meat mixture into it. Spread it out evenly to create a nice base. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese all over, followed by the grated Parmesan. The meltier, cheesier layer on top will balance the acidity from the tomatoes and add a luscious, creamy texture. Bake uncovered in your preheated oven at 375°F for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and invitingly golden around the edges.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps everything set a bit for easier scooping and deeper flavor distribution. If you love a pop of color and freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Your Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe is ready to delight!
How to Serve Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds a burst of herbaceous flavor that brightens every bite of this rich casserole. You might also consider a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for an extra zing and creamy contrast. These simple garnishes can transform this humble dish into something spectacular and personalized.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines on its own but pairing it with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables can add delightful crunch and freshness. Cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower also make excellent low-carb companions, complementing the flavors while keeping the meal keto-friendly and filling.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for an elegant touch when hosting. Alternatively, layer some of the casserole over soft cauliflower mash or even stuff it into baked bell peppers for a colorful, bite-sized variation. These creative presentations keep the dish exciting and perfect for different occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this casserole store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal even more satisfying. Simply chill and cover it well to keep the textures and tastes fresh.
Freezing
If you want to prepare meals ahead, this recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Freezing helps preserve the flavors without compromising texture, making it a lifesaver on busy days.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For the best texture, cover the casserole loosely to retain moisture and keep the cheese gooey. A quick broil at the end can help restore that freshly baked bubbly top. Whether on day one or day ten, this casserole tastes fantastic reheated.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works wonderfully in this version. Just keep an eye on cooking times as turkey can dry out slightly faster than beef.
Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, the Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe is ideal for keto and low-carb diets because it focuses on low-carb vegetables and protein, without added sugars.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely. Feel free to toss in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even some cauliflower rice for extra volume and nutrients without loading on carbs.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I adjust the heat?
The recipe includes a small amount of red pepper flakes, which can be omitted if you prefer a milder dish. Alternatively, increase the flakes to add more spice to your taste.
Can I make this vegan or vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground meat for plant-based meat alternatives or cooked lentils for a similar texture while keeping it vegetarian or vegan-friendly. Just be sure to use vegan cheese or omit it if needed.
Final Thoughts
This Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the rich flavors of stuffed cabbage without any of the hassle. It’s straightforward, customizable, and packed with wholesome ingredients that make both your taste buds and body happy. So, if you’re craving a comforting dish that doesn’t compromise your low-carb lifestyle, give this recipe a try—it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Print
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 hearty, keto-friendly dish perfect for a nutritious and comforting meal. Ground beef and cabbage simmered with tomatoes and spices, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, create a flavorful dinner that’s easy to prepare and great for meal prep.
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 and Seasonings
- 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)
Cheeses and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Cook Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon to crumble it. Drain any excess fat if needed to keep the dish lean.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, releasing fragrant flavors.
- Cook Cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage, cooking for about 5–7 minutes until it softens and reduces in volume slightly.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in diced tomatoes with their juices and tomato sauce. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir everything to combine evenly and simmer for 5 more minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the beef and cabbage mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- This recipe is keto-friendly and reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep.
- For added volume and nutrients, consider adding cauliflower rice or chopped bell peppers.
- You can substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives to suit your dietary preferences.
- Optional red pepper flakes add a nice hint of heat but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
