This Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole is a simple, hearty dish that offers all the flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage without all the fuss. It’s packed with vegetables, meat, and cheese, making it a satisfying meal that’s perfect for low carb and keto diets.
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:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Meat:
- Heat the oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add Vegetables and Spices:
- Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion, orange bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Add Cabbage:
- Mix in the chopped cabbage, stirring well to combine with the meat and vegetables. Continue to cook until the cabbage is slightly wilted, about 8-10 minutes.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly and top with the shredded Cheddar/Jack cheese.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and the cheese to set slightly.
Tips:
- Meat Variations: You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to use any combination of melting cheeses you prefer, such as mozzarella, provolone, or even a mix of different cheeses.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish can be served as a standalone meal or paired with a light salad for added freshness.
Conclusion:
This Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole is a comforting and filling meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. It captures all the traditional flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls with much less work, making it a great option for anyone following a low carb or ketogenic diet. Enjoy this delicious, cheesy, and savory casserole any night of the week!