Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. It combines savory ground meat with tender cabbage and a rich tomato sauce, topped with gooey mozzarella cheese if you like. Enjoy all the taste of classic stuffed cabbage without the fuss of rolling leaves.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until softened.
3. Step 3: Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook until wilted. Then add the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook the mixture for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Step 4: Spread the cabbage and meat mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. If using, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
5. Step 5: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Let the casserole rest a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Swap ground turkey for beef to lighten the dish or use a mixture for extra flavor.
• Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or mix in chopped mushrooms for extra texture.
• Use sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses in place of mozzarella for a different taste.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the tomato mixture a few extra minutes before baking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and assemble the casserole a day before baking. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

Absolutely. This casserole uses cabbage instead of starchy fillers, making it low in carbohydrates and perfect for low-carb or keto meal plans.

Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 66 reviews

• Author: Simon
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Carb

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Description

This Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring ground beef or turkey, fresh cabbage, and a flavorful tomato sauce. It’s perfect for those seeking a hearty, low-carb meal without the hassle of stuffing cabbage leaves. Topped with melted mozzarella cheese, this casserole is baked to bubbly perfection, making it an ideal family-friendly dinner option.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Vegetables

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)

Tomato Sauce and Seasonings

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
2. Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey. Once the meat is cooked through, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is softened and translucent.
3. Add the Cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook until it begins to wilt, approximately 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Mix in Tomatoes and Seasonings: Add the undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the meat and cabbage mixture evenly in the dish. If using, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to let everything heat through and flavors combine.
7. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned on top.
8. Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to let it set, making it easier to scoop and enjoy.

Notes

• Use ground turkey as a leaner alternative to ground beef to reduce fat content.
• For a dairy-free version, omit the mozzarella cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese option.
• You can add other seasonings like crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or fresh herbs such as parsley for freshness.
• If you prefer softer cabbage, cook it a few minutes longer in the skillet before transferring to the oven.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: low carb casserole, unstuffed cabbage casserole, ground beef casserole, healthy dinner, easy cabbage recipe