Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe
If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that’s both low-carb and full of flavor, this Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole is the perfect solution! It’s packed with all the delicious flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls, but without the carbs from rice. This casserole is easy to make, satisfying, and a great way to enjoy a low-carb meal that’s still packed with flavor. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped (or 4-5 cups of pre-shredded cabbage)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can of diced tomatoes (or 2 cups of fresh diced tomatoes)
- 1 (6 oz) can of tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a smoky depth of flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Meat
- In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken) and brown it, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Once browned, drain any excess fat if needed. Remove the meat from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes, until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage
- Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage starts to soften.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- Add the canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together.
- Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 5-10 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Step 5: Combine Meat and Cabbage
- Add the browned ground meat back into the skillet with the cabbage mixture. Stir to combine and let it simmer for another 5 minutes to heat everything through.
Step 6: Bake (Optional)
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. If you want a cheesy top, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the casserole.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese has melted (if using cheese).
Step 7: Serve
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Optional: Top with a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 350
- Carbs: 14g (mostly from the cabbage and tomatoes)
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
Why This Casserole Is Great for Low-Carb Diets:
- No Rice or Breadcrumbs: Unlike traditional stuffed cabbage rolls, this casserole skips the rice, which can add unnecessary carbs. Instead, it’s packed with flavorful cabbage and ground meat.
- Rich in Protein and Fiber: The ground beef (or turkey/chicken) provides plenty of protein, while the cabbage and tomatoes offer fiber to keep you satisfied.
- Versatile: You can customize this dish by adding different vegetables or swapping out the meat for a leaner option, depending on your preferences.
- Simple to Make: This casserole is incredibly easy to prepare and doesn’t require any complicated steps, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a simple green salad on the side for a well-rounded low-carb meal.
- Pair it with a low-carb cauliflower mash for an extra veggie-packed meal.
- For a slightly spicier version, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the casserole.
This Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole is a satisfying and healthy alternative to the traditional stuffed cabbage rolls. It’s comforting, packed with flavor, and perfect for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet! Enjoy!Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Herb Pasta