Cheesy Cabbage Casserole

If you’re searching for a satisfying, low-carb dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is your answer. Loaded with ground beef, tender cabbage, tangy tomatoes, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese, it’s a warm and hearty meal the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan recipe comes together in about 40 minutes, making it both simple and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• ½ medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chopped cabbage
• 15 ounces canned diced tomatoes
• 8 ounces canned tomato sauce
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Minced parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Add ground beef to a large skillet over medium heat and cook, breaking it apart as it browns.
2. When the meat is halfway cooked, add onion and garlic. Continue cooking until beef is fully browned.
3. Stir in chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix well to combine.
4. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes or until the cabbage softens to your desired texture.
5. Remove from heat, sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top, and let it sit for 5 minutes until the cheese melts.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Serving and Storage Tips

This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is a hearty, one-pan meal perfect for weeknights or meal prep. Serve it straight from the skillet with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and a touch of freshness. It pairs beautifully with sides like cauliflower mash, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables. For added richness, drizzle a little sour cream or sprinkle extra cheese on top before serving. Leftovers should be cooled completely, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes or warm on the stovetop over low heat. For long-term storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as desired—this casserole reheats perfectly without losing flavor or texture.

Variations

1. Spicy Cabbage Casserole: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bold, spicy flavor.
2. Low-Carb Italian Bake: Use mozzarella and Parmesan cheese with extra Italian herbs for a classic Italian twist.
3. Tex-Mex Style: Substitute Italian seasoning with taco seasoning and top with pepper jack cheese for a zesty kick.
4. Bacon & Beef Combo: Add cooked bacon pieces for an extra smoky and savory flavor.
5. Creamy Casserole: Mix in ½ cup heavy cream or sour cream for a rich, velvety texture.
6. Turkey Cabbage Casserole: Replace beef with ground turkey to make it lighter and leaner.
7. Sausage Delight: Swap beef for ground pork or Italian sausage for a more robust flavor profile.
8. Loaded Veggie Casserole: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to increase nutrients and texture.
9. Cabbage Roll Inspired: Mix in a small amount of cooked rice and paprika to resemble traditional cabbage rolls.
10. BBQ Cabbage Casserole: Stir in ¼ cup sugar-free BBQ sauce for a smoky-sweet variation.
11. Cheesy Chicken Version: Use shredded cooked chicken instead of ground beef for a delicious poultry twist.
12. Breakfast Bake: Add scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage to make a hearty morning casserole.
13. Oven-Baked Version: Transfer mixture to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes until bubbly.
14. Keto Pepperoni Twist: Add slices of pepperoni for a pizza-like flavor that’s still low-carb.
15. Smoked Cheese Variation: Use smoked gouda or smoked cheddar for a deep, smoky finish.

FAQs

1. Can I use red cabbage instead of green? Yes, red cabbage works fine, though it may slightly change the color and flavor.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely, prepare it up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to heat.
3. Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months in airtight containers.
4. Is this recipe keto-friendly? Yes, it’s low in carbs and fits perfectly into a keto diet plan.
5. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, use about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes and simmer a few extra minutes.
6. Can I add pasta or rice? Yes, but note that it will no longer be keto-friendly. Add cooked rice or pasta for a more filling dish.
7. What other cheeses can I use? Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack all work well.
8. Can I cook this in the oven instead of the stovetop? Yes, bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes or until bubbly.
9. How do I prevent the cabbage from being soggy? Don’t overcook it; keep the lid slightly ajar during simmering to let steam escape.
10. What can I serve this with? It pairs great with a green salad, roasted veggies, or cauliflower rice.

This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings together the rich flavors of beef, tomato, and melted cheese in one satisfying dish. It’s keto-friendly, quick to prepare, and versatile enough to adapt to your favorite flavors. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a meal-prep option, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

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