introduction
This low carb unstuffed cabbage casserole is simple, warm, and full of flavor. It uses ground beef, cabbage, tomatoes, and cheese. It cooks fast and fits a low carb plan. If you like quick casseroles, you might also enjoy a slow cooker French toast casserole for a cozy meal.
why make this recipe
Make this dish because it is easy, low in carbs, and fills the table with comfort. It uses few ingredients and one main pan or dutch oven. It saves time and reheats well. For another light cabbage idea try the cabbage fat burning soup.
how to make Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole
Use a large pan with high sides or a dutch oven. Brown the meat, add tomatoes and spices, top with cabbage, cook until tender, then melt cheese on top. This method keeps things simple and hands-off for most of the cooking time. You can follow the basic steps below and adjust seasonings to your taste. If you want a different base, check the blueberry French toast casserole for another easy recipe idea.
Ingredients :
3 Tablespoons Oil, 1 Lb Ground Beef, 1 Sweet Onion ((chopped)), 1 Orange Bell Pepper ((seeded, 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/Pepper ((to taste)), 1 Small Head Green Cabbage ((cored, chopped)), 2 Cups Shredded Cheddar/Jack Cheese
Directions :
Saute oil, beef, onion and orange pepper over medium/high in large pan with high sides or a dutch oven. Cook until beef is browned and onions are translucent., Add garlic and saute 1 more minute., Stir in tomatoes, spices, salt and pepper. Top with cabbage. Cover and cook 15-20 minutes or until cabbage is tender., Top with cheese, cover until melted then serve.
how to serve Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole
Serve hot from the pan in bowls or on plates. Add a spoon of sour cream or extra shredded cheese if you like. A side salad or steamed green beans pair well. For a simple breakfast-to-dinner idea, see these delicious toast recipes for breakfast for a different meal plan.
how to store Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole
Let the casserole cool to room temperature. Store covered in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Reheat single portions in the microwave or warm the whole pan in a 350°F oven until hot. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
tips to make Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole
Use a large pan or dutch oven so the cabbage steams evenly. Chop cabbage into bite-size pieces for faster cooking. Taste and adjust salt and pepper after the tomatoes cook. If you want more heat, add red pepper flakes. Try serving ideas and meal plans like a slow Valentine’s romantic night in menu when hosting.
variation (if any)
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add cauliflower rice under the cabbage for extra texture and low carb bulk.
- Stir in a spoon of tomato paste for a deeper sauce flavor.
- For a different take, see a cauliflower rice version like the one featuring cauliflower rice in other low carb casseroles.
FAQs
Q: Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
A: Yes. Pre-shredded cabbage will work and cook faster. Check tenderness after 10 minutes.
Q: Is this recipe freezer friendly?
A: Yes. Cool fully, pack into freezer-safe containers, and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: You can swap the beef for a plant-based ground meat or use cooked lentils, but the flavor will change.
Q: How long do I cook the cabbage?
A: Cover and cook 15-20 minutes or until the cabbage is tender to your liking.
Q: Do I have to use orange bell pepper?
A: No. Use any bell pepper or omit it if you prefer.
Conclusion
This low carb unstuffed cabbage casserole makes a simple weeknight meal and keeps well for later. If you want a similar recipe with a slightly different approach, see the UNSTUFFED CABBAGE CASSEROLE – WonkyWonderful for another version. For a low-carb deconstructed style, check Low-Carb Deconstructed Stuffed Cabbage Casserole – Kalyn’s. For a quick skillet option try the Keto Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Skillet (Quick & Delicious). If you want a cauliflower rice twist, see the Low Carb Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe Featuring Cauliflower Rice. For another low carb take, read the Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe | That Low Carb Life.
Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 Tablespoons Oil
- 1 Lb Ground Beef
- 1 Sweet Onion (chopped)
- 1 Orange Bell Pepper (seeded, chopped)
- 3 Cloves Garlic (chopped)
- 14 oz Can Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes
- ½ teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- ½ teaspoon Dried Oregano
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ½ teaspoon Onion Powder
- Salt/Pepper (to taste)
- 1 Small Head Green Cabbage (cored, chopped)
- 2 Cups Shredded Cheddar/Jack Cheese
Instructions
Preparation
- Saute oil, beef, onion, and orange pepper over medium/high heat in a large pan with high sides or a dutch oven until beef is browned and onions are translucent.
- Add garlic and saute for 1 more minute.
- Stir in tomatoes, spices, salt, and pepper. Top with cabbage.
- Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
- Top with cheese, cover until melted then serve.