Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole – Easy & Delicious One-Pot Meal

by

If you’re looking for a delicious, comforting, and easy-to-make low-carb meal, then this Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole is the perfect dish for you. This one-pot wonder is a simple yet flavorful alternative to traditional stuffed cabbage rolls, offering all the delicious flavors without the hassle of rolling and stuffing.

Made with ground beef (or turkey), cabbage, tomatoes, and savory seasonings, this low-carb cabbage casserole is hearty, nutritious, and keto-friendly. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, budget-friendly, and incredibly satisfying.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making this delicious low-carb dish, including step-by-step instructions, tips, ingredient variations, storage methods, and frequently asked questions.

Why You’ll Love Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole

  • Easy to Make: No need to roll cabbage leaves—just cook everything in one pot.
  • Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: Perfect for anyone on a low-carb or keto diet.
  • One-Pot Meal: Less cleanup and more convenience.
  • Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients.
  • Great for Meal Prep: Stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients for Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole

Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients needed to make this low-carb cabbage casserole.

For the Casserole:

  • 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey – A great protein base that adds heartiness.
  • 1 small onion, diced – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the overall taste with a savory kick.
  • 1 small head green cabbage, chopped – The star ingredient, adding a mild, slightly sweet crunch.
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Brings a rich, tangy tomato base.
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce – Adds thickness and enhances the tomato flavor.
  • ½ cup beef or chicken broth – Helps create a flavorful, juicy casserole.
  • 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out flavors.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a subtle warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Provides a slightly smoky taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhance the overall flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a touch of heat for those who like spice.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional) – A delicious, melty topping for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

  1. Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
  4. Add diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Cabbage and Sauce

  1. Stir in the chopped cabbage, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
  2. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth, mixing well.
  3. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  4. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.

Step 3: Simmer the Casserole

  1. Cover and let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  2. The cabbage should become tender and absorb the delicious flavors.

Step 4: Bake with Cheese (Optional)

  1. If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
  4. Bake for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
  3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Expert Tips for the Best Low Carb Cabbage Casserole

  • Use Fresh Cabbage: Freshly chopped cabbage gives the best texture and flavor.
  • Simmer Longer for Softer Cabbage: If you prefer extra-tender cabbage, let the casserole simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
  • Choose the Right Meat: Ground beef adds a richer taste, while ground turkey makes it leaner.
  • Add Extra Vegetables: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can add extra flavor and nutrients.
  • Spice It Up: For a bolder taste, add a dash of cayenne pepper or more red pepper flakes.

How to Store and Reheat Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole

Refrigeration:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

  • Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

  • Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warm.
  • Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs About Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole

1. Is this casserole keto-friendly?

Yes! This unstuffed cabbage casserole is low in carbs and keto-approved, especially when using ground beef.

2. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Cook the ground meat first, then add everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

3. What’s the best way to prevent watery cabbage?

Drain excess liquid before baking, or let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.

4. Can I use red cabbage instead of green?

Yes, but red cabbage has a slightly stronger, earthier flavor compared to green cabbage.

5. What can I serve with this dish?

Enjoy it on its own, or pair it with cauliflower rice, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

This Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole is the ultimate comfort food without the extra carbs. Packed with flavorful ground beef, tender cabbage, and a rich tomato-based sauce, it delivers hearty, satisfying bites every time.

Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or just looking for a quick and easy dinner, this one-pot meal is a fantastic option. It’s healthy, budget-friendly, and perfect for meal prep.

Try this delicious low-carb cabbage casserole today and enjoy a flavor-packed meal without the extra work of stuffing cabbage rolls!

Leave a Comment