Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
If you’ve been craving the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls with a low-carb twist, this Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole is about to become your new obsession. Imagine layers of tender cabbage, savory spiced beef, and a blanket of bubbling, golden cheese—all without any rice or guilt. This is a one-dish wonder that lets you enjoy those classic flavors and textures, but in a weeknight-friendly, family-pleasing form. Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole checks all the boxes: hearty, nutritious, easy, and so cozy, you’ll swear Grandma made it just for you!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish comes together with humble ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor and making that irresistible bubbling casserole. Every bite offers a medley of taste and color, so choose the freshest ingredients you can find to make this Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole sing.
- Ground beef: Opt for 80/20 beef—plenty of flavor and richness keeps your casserole juicy.
- Onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth; dice it small for even distribution throughout the casserole.
- Garlic: Brightens every layer—fresh minced garlic offers the most punch.
- Green cabbage: This recipe’s star—it soaks up all those savory juices while keeping carbs in check.
- Diced tomatoes: Lends moisture, tang, and a pop of color to the beef mixture.
- Tomato sauce: Richens the casserole sauce; use a no-sugar-added option for keto purity.
- Dried oregano: Brings warm, classic herb notes reminiscent of old-school cabbage rolls.
- Paprika: Adds a touch of sweet smokiness—try smoked paprika for even more flavor.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing every other flavor in the casserole.
- Black pepper: A little kick pairs perfectly with the savory beef.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey casserole top.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Offers rich, sharp flavor contrast that makes the dish shine.
- Olive oil: For sautéing veggies and keeping the casserole heart-healthy.
How to Make Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pans
Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or nonstick spray. This simple step ensures nothing sticks and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil, then toss in your diced onion. Let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and fragrant. Next, add the minced garlic and stir for just 30 seconds—enough to bloom that beautiful aroma without burning it.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
To the skillet, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula, letting it brown evenly for about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess fat—especially if you’re using fattier ground beef, to keep the dish from getting greasy. This step builds flavor and ensures the base of your Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole is hearty and savory.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Stir in the diced tomatoes (juice and all), tomato sauce, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the beefy sauce gently simmer for 5 minutes so everything melds together and thickens just a touch. If you want to add an extra layer of richness, now’s the perfect time to stir in a spoonful or two of cream cheese!
Step 5: Cook the Cabbage
While your sauce simmers, heat a separate large skillet or pot over medium. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until just beginning to soften. You want the cabbage to be tender but still have a little bite—the oven will finish the job.
Step 6: Layer the Casserole
Begin by layering half the cooked cabbage into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Spoon half the savory beef mixture over the cabbage, then repeat with the remaining cabbage and the rest of the beef sauce. This way, every forkful is perfectly balanced with meat and veggies.
Step 7: Top With Cheese
Sprinkle on the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese, making sure you cover every inch of the casserole’s surface. This double-cheese layer turns perfectly golden and bubbly as it bakes, giving Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole that must-have comfort food finish.
Step 8: Bake Until Bubbling
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and return to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and deliciously melty. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before you dig in; this makes it easier to slice and serves up those lovely, neat pieces.
How to Serve Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole
Garnishes
Add freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. A drizzle of sour cream or dollop of Greek yogurt is also divine, echoing the classic flavors of old-fashioned cabbage rolls. For a spicy kick, sprinkle a dash of red pepper flakes on top just before serving.
Side Dishes
This casserole can absolutely stand on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some roasted broccoli for more color and crunch. If you’re entertaining, a platter of sliced cucumbers and radishes or a bowl of tangy sauerkraut keeps things light and bright alongside all that savory goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
You can dish Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole into individual ramekins for a dinner party or spoon generous helpings over a bed of wilted spinach for even more greens. For a “deconstructed wrap” effect, spoon the hearty mixture onto large cabbage leaves, roll them up, and serve them as hand-held bites at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the baking dish with foil or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days—the flavors meld and deepen, making reheated servings even more satisfying the next day.
Freezing
This casserole freezes like a dream. Slice it into individual portions, wrap each tightly in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When the Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole craving hits, just thaw and reheat—dinner is served!
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated slices in the microwave or pop the whole covered baking dish in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbling, about 20 minutes. From frozen, let portions thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm as usual for best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or even ground chicken are delicious lighter alternatives. Just keep in mind you may want to increase the seasoning a bit, since leaner meats can be milder in flavor.
Is this Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole spicy?
No, the recipe as written isn’t spicy. However, you can easily add heat by including crushed red pepper, a pinch of cayenne, or even a diced jalapeño when you sauté the onions.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the entire Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it’ll be starting out cold.
What’s the best way to cut cabbage for this recipe?
Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch squares. This helps it cook down evenly, nestle between the beef layers, and makes your casserole super easy to serve.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as there are no grains or bread crumbs—just wholesome beef, veggies, and a keto-friendly sauce. Always check your canned tomatoes and spices if you have sensitivities, just to be extra safe.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a weeknight dinner that’s comforting, low-carb, and feels like a warm hug, Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole is the answer. Whether you’re keto, gluten-free, or just a casserole lover at heart, you won’t be disappointed—give it a try and get ready to add a new favorite to your meal rotation!
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Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole is a delicious low-carb twist on the classic cabbage rolls, with all the flavors you love in an easy-to-make casserole. It’s a comforting, hearty dish perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Casserole Layers:
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Cook Ground Beef Mixture: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion until softened. Add garlic, ground beef, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Cook Cabbage: In a separate skillet, cook cabbage until slightly softened.
- Assemble Casserole: Layer cabbage and beef mixture in a greased baking dish. Top with cheeses.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For added richness, stir a few tablespoons of cream cheese into the beef mixture before layering.
- This casserole freezes well—store in individual portions for easy keto-friendly meals later.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
