Cabbage Unstuffed
A hearty, low-carb casserole combining tender cabbage and savory ground meat with tomato sauce and flavorful herbs. Topped with Parmesan cheese, it offers comforting flavors suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings, delivering a satisfying, nutritious meal that is easy to prepare and full of bold tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté ground meat, chopped onions, and minced garlic until cooked; drain excess fat.
- Add tomato sauce, salt, thyme, and pepper to the meat mixture; stir well.
- Place half of the sliced cabbage in a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with half of the meat sauce; repeat layers with remaining cabbage and meat sauce.
- Cover the casserole and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
- Remove from oven, top with grated Parmesan cheese, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with lentils or quinoa. Adjust the seasoning to taste and feel free to experiment with herbs like oregano for additional flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Old Plantation Rolls for a comforting dinner. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top before serving for added flavor. This unstuffed cabbage makes a hearty lunch option as well.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal. This dish keeps well and can be just as delicious the next day.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage Unstuffed contains roughly 127 calories, with 9g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (68% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1806mg per serving (79% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cabbage for this recipe?
Yes, you can use green cabbage, savoy cabbage, or even napa cabbage. Each type will provide a slightly different texture and flavor, but all will work well in this dish. Just ensure the cabbage is thinly sliced for even cooking.
Is it possible to make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just assemble the layers, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I serve with Cabbage Unstuffed?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with garlic bread, a light green salad, or roasted vegetables. You can also enjoy it alongside classic American recipes like mashed potatoes or rice for a heartier meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).