Keto cabbage casserole is a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s perfect for anyone following a ketogenic or low-carb diet. With cabbage as the main vegetable, it provides a hearty, fiber-rich base while keeping the carb count low. The creamy, cheesy sauce binds all the ingredients together, creating a comforting, casserole-like experience. Ground meat, such as beef, turkey, or sausage, adds protein and depth of flavor, making this dish both filling and nutrient-dense.
One of the best things about keto cabbage casserole is its versatility. While the base recipe typically calls for cabbage, cheese, heavy cream, and ground meat, you can easily customize it by adding other low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. The richness of the cream sauce complements the savory flavors of the meat and vegetables, making each bite indulgent yet healthy. Plus, the dish is simple to prepare, requiring just one skillet for cooking and a short time in the oven to achieve a golden, bubbly top.
This casserole is not only great for weeknight dinners but also works well as meal prep for the week ahead. You can prepare it in advance, store it in the fridge for a few days, or even freeze it for later use. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or pairing it with a side salad, keto cabbage casserole offers a delicious and low-carb alternative to traditional comfort food. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a filling, nutrient-packed meal without sacrificing taste or texture.
Keto cabbage casserole is a delicious, low-carb dish perfect for anyone following a ketogenic diet. It typically features cabbage as the main vegetable, along with a creamy, cheesy sauce, and often includes ground meat for added protein. Here’s a basic recipe you can try:
Keto Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, sausage, or chicken)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
- 1/2 cup chicken or beef broth (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.
- Cook the ground meat: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned, remove the meat from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the onion and garlic: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Cook the cabbage: Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and thyme (if using), and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the cabbage starts to soften. If using broth, add it here and allow it to cook off as the cabbage softens.
- Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, cream cheese (if using), and Dijon mustard. Season with a little salt and pepper.
- Combine the casserole: Add the cooked meat and sautéed onions and garlic to the skillet with the cabbage. Stir to combine everything evenly. Pour the cream mixture over the top and stir again. Let it cook together for another 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Add cheese: Transfer everything to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can broil for an additional 1-2 minutes for a golden, crispy cheese top.
- Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or a bit of sour cream if desired.
Tips:
- You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini if you like.
- This dish can easily be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- If you prefer a more “comfort food” feel, you can top with some crumbled bacon before baking!
Enjoy your keto-friendly cabbage casserole!