Low Carb Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is a hearty, satisfying, and budget-friendly dish that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. Loaded with browned ground beef or turkey, tender cabbage, savory tomatoes with green chilies, and topped with melted cheese, it’s a warm and comforting one-skillet meal that’s easy to make and full of bold flavor. Whether you’re trying to cut carbs or just looking for a filling weeknight dinner, this casserole delivers all the comfort of traditional baked dishes without the added starches.
What makes this dish so appealing is the simplicity and versatility. It’s made with pantry staples and fresh cabbage, making it both economical and accessible. The tomatoes with green chilies add a mild kick, while the melty cheese topping brings everything together in a gooey, delicious finish. This is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
• Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: A hearty, cheesy casserole without the carbs.
• One-Skillet Simplicity: Easy prep, easy cleanup, and full of flavor.
• Customizable: Swap the protein or cheese, and adjust the heat to your preference.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey, browned and drained
• 1 small onion, diced
• ½ head of cabbage, chopped into medium chunks (roughly 3 cups)
• 1 (10-ounce) can tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Colby Jack recommended)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Meat
• In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked.
• Drain off any excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole.
Step 2: Add the Onion
• Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3–5 minutes, or until softened and slightly translucent.
Step 3: Add Cabbage and Tomatoes
• Stir in the chopped cabbage, tomatoes with green chilies (including liquid), tomato sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Cook the Casserole
• Cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium.
• Let it cook for 15–18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender to your liking.
• Adjust the seasoning if needed with more salt or pepper.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Melt
• Once the cabbage is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
• Remove the skillet from heat and cover with a lid.
• Let it sit for about 2 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.
Tips:
• Adjust the Heat: Use a mild or hot version of tomatoes with green chilies depending on your spice preference.
• More Vegetables: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra texture and nutrition.
• Cheese Variations: Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or mozzarella are all tasty alternatives to cheddar.
• Make It a Bake: For a casserole-style dish, transfer to a baking dish after cooking, top with cheese, and broil for 3–5 minutes until bubbly and golden.
• Protein Swap: Ground chicken, sausage, or even leftover rotisserie chicken works well here too.
Storage Options:
• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
• Freezer: Let the casserole cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet or microwave.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Divide into individual containers for easy grab-and-go low-carb lunches or dinners.
