Cabbage Roll Casserole

Here is your full recipe profile for Cabbage Roll Casserole (Low Carb), complete with all requested sections and the wide line removed:

Introduction

This Cabbage Roll Casserole is a low-carb take on the beloved comfort dish that delivers all the flavor of traditional cabbage rolls—without the fuss of rolling. Featuring ground beef, tender cabbage, sweet onions, and a rich tomato base, this one-pan wonder is easy to make, meal-prep friendly, and satisfying. It’s the kind of hearty, wholesome dinner that fills you up without weighing you down.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Cabbage rolls have deep roots in Eastern European, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cuisine, where cabbage leaves are typically stuffed with seasoned meats, grains, and spices. This casserole version simplifies the classic, making it more accessible for busy households while preserving its hearty essence. By removing the rice and using minimal carbs, this low-carb version aligns beautifully with modern dietary preferences like keto and paleo, while still celebrating the dish’s rustic and resourceful origins.

Ingredients Quantity

• 3 tablespoons oil (olive or avocado oil preferred)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 sweet onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)

Optional Additions

• Crushed red pepper flakes for a kick
• Ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option
• Sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for extra veggies
• Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for garnish
• Grated Parmesan mixed with mozzarella for a cheesy finish

Tips for Success

• Sauté onions until translucent to develop sweetness and depth.
• Use lean ground beef to prevent greasiness.
• Chop the cabbage evenly so it cooks uniformly.
• Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to set.
• Make a double batch and freeze for easy weeknight meals.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat oil over medium heat.
3. Add ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until beef is browned and onion is soft. Drain excess grease if necessary.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
5. Stir in chopped cabbage, and sauté for about 5–7 minutes, until it begins to soften.
6. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Stir well to combine.
7. Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. If using, sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly on top.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
10. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
11. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving for easier slicing.

Description

This casserole is rich, savory, and deeply comforting, with layers of caramelized onion, juicy beef, and melting cabbage swimming in a garlicky tomato sauce. When topped with melted mozzarella, it transforms into a cheesy, hearty bake that’s perfect for feeding the whole family—without a single grain of rice or pasta.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. 6 servings)

• Calories: 330
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 3g
• Net Carbs: 6g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: ~520mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and quantities used.

Conclusion

Whether you’re trying to eat low-carb or just want a comforting, healthy dinner, this Low-Carb Cabbage Roll Casserole checks every box. It’s filling, flavorful, freezer-friendly, and flexible. No rolling, no fuss—just cozy layers of classic cabbage roll flavor baked to perfection.

Recommendation

Serve with:

• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt
• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed green beans or roasted vegetables for extra fiber

Great for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Make-ahead meals
• Keto and low-carb lifestyles

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

This dish is a shining example of comfort food made healthy. To boost the health factor even more:

• Use grass-fed beef or lean ground turkey
• Load in extra low-carb veggies
• Swap mozzarella with light cheese or use just a sprinkle for flavor
• Add fresh herbs instead of salt for a sodium-conscious version

Eating well doesn’t mean missing out—it just means making flavorful choices with purpose. This casserole delivers all the comfort, none of the compromise.

---

Would you like a printable version, or suggestions for turning this into a freezer meal kit?