Shredded cabbage combined with a savory mix of ingredients makes this Stuffed Cabbage Casserole an ideal low-carb weeknight meal. Aromatic spices and a rich tomato base deliver comforting flavor in a simple one-skillet dish.
This shortcut version of classic stuffed cabbage rolls is cooked to perfection in under 30 minutes, making it a convenient family favorite that requires minimal prep and cleanup.
đ About This Recipe
This unstuffy take on stuffed cabbage rolls is a new go-to for busy evenings. Like the traditional version, itâs loaded with ground beef, vegetables, and melty cheese, but itâs built for speed and convenience.
The real advantage is that everything cooks in one skillet. From start to finish youâll spend under 30 minutes, so itâs perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an easy weekend meal.
đ§ Ingredients Needed
- Ground beef – provides heartiness; swap for ground turkey or chicken to reduce fat.
- Pepper and onion strips – frozen pre-sliced vegetables save time; fresh bell peppers and onions work fine too.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies – adds a mild kick; plain diced tomatoes can be used if you prefer milder heat.
- Seasonings – onion powder, oregano, paprika, and garlic powder create a balanced, savory profile; adjust to taste.
- Shredded cabbage – pre-shredded cabbage cuts prep time and cooks quickly.
- Cheddar jack cheese – melts nicely on top; substitute any melting cheese you like.
đŞ Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and frozen pepper-and-onion strips. Saute, breaking up the meat, until the beef is almost fully browned.
- Lightly drain the diced tomatoes, then stir them into the skillet with paprika, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix to combine.
- Top the beef and tomato mixture with the shredded cabbage. Cover the skillet, reduce heat to medium, and cook for about 15 minutes, until the cabbage is tender.
- Remove the lid, stir the cabbage into the meat mixture, then sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover again and cook until the cheese melts.
â FAQs
Overcooking the beef before adding the cabbage can dry it out. Brown the meat until nearly cooked, then add the cabbage and finish cooking together so the meat stays tender.
No. For this recipe, shredded cabbage cooks quickly and doesnât need soaking.
Yes. A casserole simply refers to a one-dish meal; this recipe is a stovetop casserole made entirely in a skillet.
đ Expert Tips and Tricks
- Drain excess grease after browning the beef unless you use extra-lean meat.
- Rotel-style diced tomatoes with chilies add a nice flavor boost; use plain diced tomatoes if you prefer milder taste.
- Adjust the cheese amount to suit your preference; extra cheese keeps the dish rich and gooey.
đ Low-carb and packed with vegetables, this easy casserole is ideal when you want a quick, satisfying meal with minimal cleanup.
đĄ Substitutions and Variations
- Add 1â2 cups cooked rice to make the recipe stretch and serve more people.
- Include extra vegetablesâmushrooms, carrots, or broccoliâfor added texture and nutrition.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Season to taste with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
𼍠Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4â5 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm in an oven-safe dish.
This casserole freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
â˛ď¸ Make Ahead Instructions
Prep a head of cabbage, a bell pepper, and an onion ahead of time. Chop and refrigerate or freeze them to shorten evening prep time.
đ´ What To Serve With This Dish
The casserole is a complete meal on its own, but itâs also delicious served over quinoa or paired with cornbread or roasted garlic-and-rosemary potatoes for a heartier plate.
âď¸ More Casserole Recipes You’ll Love
- Corn Dog Casserole – a fun, nostalgic twist on corn dogs made into an easy casserole.
- Eggplant Polenta Casserole – a lighter lasagna-inspired casserole that uses eggplant and polenta.
- Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole – hearty and perfect for brunch or family dinners.
- Sloppy Joe Casserole – a comforting, family-friendly one-dish meal.
Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
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đ Recipe Card
One Skillet Stuffed Cabbage Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound extra lean ground beef
- 14 ounces frozen bell pepper and onion strips (1 package)
- 14 ounces diced tomatoes with green chilies (1 can)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 3 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded cheddar jack cheese
Instructions
- Add the ground beef and frozen pepper-and-onion strips to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Saute while breaking up the beef until it is nearly cooked.
- Lightly drain the diced tomatoes, then stir them into the skillet with paprika, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Top the beef and tomato mixture with the shredded cabbage. Cover, reduce heat to medium, and cook 15 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
- Stir the cabbage into the meat, sprinkle with cheese, cover, and cook until the cheese is melted. Serve warm.
Notes
- Rotel-style diced tomatoes with chilies add extra flavor, but plain diced tomatoes work too.
- Add extra shredded cheese if you like a cheesier finish.
- Drain excess grease if your ground beef isnât very lean.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used as substitutes.
- To make it go further, stir in 1â2 cups cooked rice for up to six servings.
- Customize with additional veggies like carrots or mushrooms and season with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired.
Nutrition
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Carbohydrates: 14 g
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Protein: 33 g
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Fat: 16 g
Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.
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