Easy Cabbage Casserole (Low-Carb)
The Story Behind the Recipe
Casseroles are beloved comfort foods that bring warmth and satisfaction to the table, often evoking memories of family dinners and cozy gatherings. However, traditional casseroles can be carb-heavy and not suitable for those following a low-carb or keto diet. This Easy Cabbage Casserole was created to offer a healthier alternative that still captures the comforting essence of a classic casserole.
Cabbage, often underrated, serves as the perfect base for this dish, providing a hearty texture and mild flavor that pairs well with various proteins and cheeses. The idea was to make a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to fit into busy weeknight dinners without compromising on taste or health benefits.
Imagine a bubbling, golden casserole coming out of the oven, filled with layers of tender cabbage, seasoned ground meat, and gooey cheese. It’s a dish that satisfies cravings for something warm and filling while keeping carbs low and nutrients high. This casserole is a tribute to the versatility of cabbage and the joy of simple, wholesome cooking.
Things to Consider
- Cabbage Preparation: Cabbage should be chopped into bite-sized pieces and pre-cooked slightly to ensure tenderness in the casserole.
- Protein Choices: Ground beef is a classic choice, but ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be used for different flavor profiles.
- Cheese Selection: A combination of cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend works well. Choose full-fat cheeses to keep the dish creamy and satisfying.
- Seasoning: Use spices and herbs to add depth of flavor. Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika are good basic choices, but feel free to get creative with your favorite seasonings.
Tips and Tricks
- Pre-cook the Cabbage: Sauté or steam the cabbage lightly before adding it to the casserole to avoid excess moisture and ensure it cooks evenly.
- Drain Excess Fat: If using higher-fat ground meat, drain any excess fat after cooking to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy.
- Layering: Layer the ingredients in the casserole dish to ensure even distribution of flavors in every bite.
- Cheese Topping: Add a final layer of cheese on top and broil for a few minutes at the end of baking to get a nice golden crust.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes (low-carb)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
