If you are looking for a comforting, hearty dish that fits perfectly within your low-carb lifestyle, the Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. This recipe captures all the savory goodness of traditional cabbage rolls, but skips the carbs, making it ideal for keto enthusiasts. It combines tender ground beef, vibrant cabbage, and rich tomato flavors into one cozy casserole topped with melty mozzarella cheese that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe is a breeze because it calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that bring remarkable taste and texture. Each component plays a crucial role—cabbage adds a mild crunch and freshness, while the ground beef provides that savory, meaty foundation. The tomatoes and Italian seasoning offer a tangy and aromatic depth, and the mozzarella cheese melts into the perfect golden finish.
- 1 lb ground beef: Choose quality beef for rich flavor and a satisfying protein boost.
- 1 small head cabbage, chopped: Provides a great low-carb vegetable base with a hint of sweetness.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and savory undertones; cooking softens and deepens its flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For that classic aromatic punch essential in hearty dishes.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes: Brings juiciness and a bright, fresh tomato taste.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, saucy texture that binds the casserole together.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that complements the beef and cabbage beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides a creamy, golden topping that melts perfectly.
How to Make Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This sets the stage for melting the cheese to bubbly perfection later on.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned. Be sure to drain off any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy, while keeping the beef flavorful and juicy.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Add the chopped cabbage, onion, and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook everything together until the cabbage softens and wilts, allowing the flavors to meld and release their natural sweetness.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer gently for about 10 minutes so all those delicious ingredients come together in a rich sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the savory meat and vegetable mixture into a casserole dish, evenly spreading it out. Then, generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top to create that irresistible, cheesy crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the cheese is thoroughly melted and bubbly with golden spots. This finishing step adds a delightful texture contrast to the tender filling.
How to Serve Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the look and freshness of your Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe, garnish with some chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. A few chili flakes also work wonderfully if you like a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed low-carb vegetables like zucchini ribbons adds some lightness and color to the plate. A dollop of sour cream on the side complements the rich tomato sauce perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive meal, layer individual portions in small ramekins topped with extra cheese and broil briefly for a crisp finish on each serving. Alternatively, serve it in a beautiful ceramic dish straight from the oven to the table, inviting everyone to dig into this comforting bowl of goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick weekday lunches or dinners.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this casserole well in advance, it freezes wonderfully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which helps maintain the casserole’s texture and keeps the cheese melty and delicious. Microwaving also works for a quicker option, but the oven method is preferred for the best flavor and texture preservation.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and will work well in the Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe, though the flavor will be slightly milder. Just be sure to season it generously.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this casserole is fantastic for meal prepping. It stores well, is easy to reheat, and keeps you on track with your keto goals throughout the week.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely. Feel free to toss in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to add even more nutrition and variety while keeping it low-carb.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No worries. You can substitute with a blend of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary to mimic the flavor profile perfectly.
Is the mozzarella cheese necessary?
The mozzarella cheese adds a wonderful creamy and melty top layer that brings the whole dish together, but if you’re dairy-free, you can try a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit it entirely for a lighter version.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about cozying up with a plate of Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and hits all the right notes for anyone looking to enjoy a low-carb meal without sacrificing comfort. Go ahead, give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how easily this becomes a family favorite that everyone looks forward to.
Print
Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole is a low-carb, comforting dish combining browned ground beef with tender cabbage and a flavorful tomato sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for those following a ketogenic diet or anyone seeking a hearty, gluten-free casserole that’s easy to prepare and delicious.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small head cabbage, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the casserole.
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned all over. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish leaner.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped cabbage, onion, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the cabbage is wilted and the vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.
- Add tomato ingredients and season: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into a casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Notes
- Drain excess beef fat to reduce calories and keep the casserole keto-friendly.
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to the tomato mixture.
- Substitute mozzarella with cheddar or a keto-friendly cheese if preferred.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
- Leftovers keep well and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
