Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole is a flavorful and hearty dish that captures all the taste of classic stuffed cabbage without the fuss of rolling. Packed with ground beef, tender cabbage, and melted cheese, it’s a comforting meal perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
- 3 Tablespoons Oil
- 1 Lb Ground Beef
- 1 Sweet Onion, chopped
- 1 Orange Bell Pepper, seeded and chopped
- 3 Garlic Cloves, chopped
- 14 oz Can Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
- 1 Small Head Green Cabbage, cored and chopped
- 2 Cups Shredded Cheddar/Jack Cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat oil in a large pan with high sides or a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped orange bell pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Step 2: Add the chopped garlic and sauté for 1 additional minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Stir in the fire roasted diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Evenly top the mixture with the chopped cabbage. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the cabbage becomes tender.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and cook just until the cheese is melted. Serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the beef mixture.
- Try using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Swap out cheddar/jack cheese for mozzarella or pepper jack to change up the cheese flavor.
- If you prefer softer cabbage, cook for a few minutes longer before adding cheese.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. This casserole does not freeze well due to the cheese and cabbage texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils for a vegetarian version. Adjust seasoning as needed for added flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for a low carb diet?
Absolutely. This dish is low in carbohydrates thanks to its focus on cabbage and protein-rich ground beef, making it a great option for low carb and keto diets.
PrintLow Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe
This Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish combining ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and tender cabbage in a savory tomato sauce, topped with melted cheddar and jack cheese for a satisfying low-carb meal option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 Tablespoons Oil
- 1 Lb Ground Beef
- 1 Sweet Onion, chopped
- 1 Orange Bell Pepper, seeded and chopped
- 3 Garlic Cloves, chopped
- 14 oz Can Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
- 1 Small Head Green Cabbage, cored and chopped
- 2 Cups Shredded Cheddar/Jack Cheese
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics and Beef: Heat the oil in a large pan with high sides or a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped orange bell pepper, sautéing until the beef is fully browned and the onions become translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the chopped garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine Tomatoes and Spices: Add the fire roasted diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook with Cabbage: Place the chopped cabbage on top of the mixture without stirring. Cover the pan and let it cook for 15-20 minutes over medium heat until the cabbage becomes tender.
- Add Cheese and Serve: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and jack cheese evenly over the cooked cabbage. Cover the pan again and cook until the cheese melts completely, about 3-5 minutes. Serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes when adding tomatoes and spices.
- Make sure not to stir the cabbage at first to allow it to steam and soften properly.
- Use a mix of cheddar and jack cheese for a balanced melt and flavor.
- This dish is naturally low in carbs and can be served on its own or with a side salad.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
Keywords: low carb, cabbage casserole, ground beef casserole, unstuffed cabbage, easy dinner, keto-friendly
