If you’re craving the cozy, comforting flavors of cabbage rolls but want to keep things low-carb and simple, then this Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe is going to be a game changer. It takes the beloved elements of traditional cabbage rolls—the savory ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and tender cabbage—and bakes them all into a hearty, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. This dish is rich, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying without any fuss or rolling individual leaves. Once you try this recipe, it might just become your new keto comfort food favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient brings a distinct flavor and texture to the table. From the juicy ground beef to the tender cabbage and the melty cheese topping, these essentials come together to create a meal that’s as balanced in taste as it is in nutrition.
- Ground beef (1 1/2 pounds): Provides a rich, hearty base loaded with protein and flavor.
- Small onion (diced): Adds a gentle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): Brings a fragrant punch that complements the beef perfectly.
- Green cabbage (1 small head, chopped, about 6 cups): Offers subtle crunch and nutrients while keeping carbs low.
- Diced tomatoes (1 15-oz can): Gives a bright, slightly acidic balance that’s essential in cabbage roll flavors.
- Tomato sauce (1 8-oz can): Creates a saucy, comforting texture that binds the dish beautifully.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Infuses a lovely herbal aroma and a hint of earthiness.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds subtle smokiness and vibrant color.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Provides just the right amount of bite and warmth.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): For a gooey, stretchy cheesy topping that everyone loves.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1/2 cup): Adds sharpness and a golden crust on top.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Used for sautéing, it brings richness and a silky texture.
How to Make Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
Start by heating the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Once shimmering, add the diced onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent, releasing its natural sweetness. Toss in the minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant—this aroma will fill your kitchen with instant warmth. Now it’s time for the star ingredient: ground beef. Break it up in the skillet and cook until nicely browned throughout. Be sure to drain away any excess fat to keep this dish light and keto-friendly. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper, then let everything simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld into a rich, savory sauce.
Step 2: Soften the Cabbage
While the beef simmers, get your cabbage ready. In a separate skillet or large pot, cook the chopped cabbage over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes until it begins to soften but still retains a little bite. This slight tenderness helps it blend beautifully into the casserole, giving you that perfect cabbage texture without being mushy.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Start by layering half of the softened cabbage on the bottom, creating a flavorful, low-carb base. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the cabbage, spreading it evenly. Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage and beef, creating a deliciously stacked casserole ready to be topped with cheese.
Step 4: Add the Cheesy Finish and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses generously on top, setting the stage for a bubbling, melty finish. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cabbage to continue softening. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is golden, bubbly, and irresistibly inviting. Once out of the oven, let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to let everything set perfectly.
How to Serve Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a fresh pop of color and a mild herbal brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich casserole. For those who love a touch of heat, a few red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add just the right kick without overpowering the dish’s comforting flavors.
Side Dishes
This casserole really shines as a standalone meal thanks to its hearty ingredients, but pairing it with a crisp, refreshing side salad or some roasted low-carb veggies like asparagus or Brussels sprouts can round out your plate beautifully. If you want an extra touch of creaminess, a dollop of sour cream works wonders as a keto-friendly topping or side.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion or meal prep, consider serving this casserole in individual ramekins or small skillets to make portions feel more personalized and festive. You can also add a twist by mixing in a few tablespoons of cream cheese into the beef mixture before layering for an ultra-creamy texture that’s simply irresistible. The casserole also freezes well in single portions, making it easy to thaw and reheat on busy days.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe keeps well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors might even deepen overnight, making your next meal just as delicious.
Freezing
This casserole is a fantastic freezer-friendly dish. Freeze in individual portions or the whole casserole (cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil) for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F, covered, for 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through. For quicker meals, microwave portions on medium power in short bursts until hot, taking care not to dry out the cheese topping.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works great as a leaner alternative and will still soak up all the wonderful flavors of the sauce and seasonings.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prepping?
Yes! This Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe is perfect for meal prepping since it stores well and makes easy, grab-and-go portions.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Feel free to add low-carb veggies like bell peppers or zucchini if you want to mix things up, but keep cabbage as the main veggie to maintain the dish’s signature texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have diced tomatoes on hand?
You can substitute with fresh chopped tomatoes or even crushed tomatoes, just adjust the cooking time slightly to achieve the right consistency.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Skip the cheese or use dairy-free cheese alternatives, and use olive oil or coconut oil for cooking to keep it dairy-free while still delicious.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this fabulous Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe in your arsenal, your weeknight dinners just got a whole lot easier and tastier. It’s hearty, comforting, and perfectly suited for anyone sticking to a keto lifestyle or simply wanting a nourishing, homey meal. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself making it on repeat—here’s to cozy meals with big flavors!
Print
Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb, Gluten Free
Description
This Keto Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole is a low-carb, gluten-free comfort food dish that combines savory ground beef and tender cabbage baked to perfection with melted mozzarella and cheddar cheese. It’s a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for a keto dinner or anyone looking for a healthy, satisfying casserole option.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
Tomato Base and Seasonings
- 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
Cheeses and Oils
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its flavor.
- Cook Beef Mixture: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Brown it thoroughly, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Prepare Cabbage: In a separate skillet or large pot, cook the chopped cabbage over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until it softens slightly but still retains some crunch.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half the cooked cabbage evenly on the bottom. Layer half the beef mixture over the cabbage. Repeat these layers with the remaining cabbage and beef mixture.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle and the dish to cool slightly.
Notes
- For extra richness, stir a few tablespoons of cream cheese into the beef mixture before layering.
- This casserole freezes well—store in individual portions for convenient keto-friendly meals later.
