Description
This Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole is the ultimate weeknight dinner—savory, hearty, and bursting with comfort. Made with ground beef, tender cabbage, and a perfectly seasoned tomato base, it’s a one-pan, keto-friendly meal that satisfies without the carbs. Ready in under 45 minutes, this skillet dish delivers all the flavor of classic stuffed cabbage rolls—without the fuss.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1½ pounds lean ground beef or ground turkey
1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
1½ teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
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Sauté Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. -
Cook the Ground Meat
Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Cook, stirring and breaking it up with a spatula, until fully browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary. -
Add the Cabbage
Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until it starts to soften. -
Incorporate Tomatoes and Seasonings
Pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Add salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine. -
Simmer
Cover and let the mixture simmer over medium-low heat for 20–25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
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Serve
Serve hot as-is or over cauliflower rice for an extra low-carb option.
Notes
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This dish is incredibly flexible—try it with ground pork or even leftover shredded chicken.
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For added richness, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top before serving.
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If you prefer spicier flavors, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Low Carb