Cabbage casserole with hamburger meat delivers bold flavor using simple ingredients! This is an easy way to turn cabbage into a satisfying dinner.

Cabbage and beef casserole in cast iron skillet

 

I tested this recipe countless times before I got it just right. Cabbage casserole seems straightforward, but getting the balance right takes more than just tossing everything in a pan. After testing different cabbage cuts, beef ratios, and cook times, this version consistently delivers tender cabbage without excess moisture and a filling that holds together without turning soupy.

This is a practical, filling and easy dinner when you want something wholesome and hearty on the table without breaking the bank.

Why I love this casserole

  • One Pan: protein, vegetables and comfort all in one dish!
  • Budget Friendly: built around affordable and easy to find ingredients.
  • Great leftovers: holds texture and flavor for several days.
Cabbage and Beef in a tomato sauce with shredded cheese in pan
Cabbage and beef casserole in cast iron skillet

Key Ingredients 

  • Ground beef: you can also use ground pork, chicken, turkey, or your favorite ground sausage. 
  • Vegetables: you will need freshly chopped onion and cabbage for this recipe. 
  • Canned Goods: Canned tomatoes with green chiles, also known as Rotel in the U.S., as well as tomato sauce. 
  • Spices: Garlic powder, Chili powder, salt, and pepper
  • Shredded cheese: you can use your favorite variety but sharp cheddar, Colby-Jack, or even Pepper-Jack if you enjoy a little extra spice.

How to Make Cabbage Casserole 

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: Brown the ground beef, drain off any grease and return the cooked meat back to the skillet. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened.
  2. Add the Cabbage and Tomatoes: Add the cabbage, undrained tomatoes, a small can of tomato sauce, and spices, and stir well.
  3. Cover and Cook: Allow the casserole to cook 10-15 minutes until the cabbage is tender. 
  4. Add Cheese: After 15 minutes, stir everything well and check the cabbage to see if it is tender enough for your liking. Add cheese and allow it to melt before serving
This One Pan Cabbage Casserole is a low carb, easy dinner ready in 30 minutes!
This One Pan Cabbage Casserole is a low carb, easy dinner ready in 30 minutes!
Cabbage and Beef in a tomato sauce with shredded cheese in pan

Tips

  • You can use ground beef or ground turkey in this low-carb casserole recipe. 
  • Drain excess grease to prevent a heavy casserole.
  • Make sure you don’t chop the cabbage too small since it shrinks so much while it is cooking.
  • Do NOT drain the canned tomatoes and green chiles. The liquid the tomatoes are in is packed with flavor! 

More Low Carb Casseroles: 

Cabbage and beef casserole in cast iron skillet

Get the Recipe: Cabbage Casserole with Ground Beef

Cook: 20 minutes
Total: 20 minutes
Yield: 6
Author: Annie Holmes
Cabbage casserole is a complete one pan dinner made with ground beef, tomatoes, cabbage and cheese.
4.41 from 669 ratings
Print Pin Recipe

Ingredients
 

  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey, browned and drained
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1/2 head of cabbage chopped into medium chunks, roughly 3 cups
  • 1 10 ounce can tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
  • 1 8 ounce can of tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheese, cheddar or colby jack is our favorite

Equipment

Instructions
 

  • In a medium size skillet brown your beef or turkey over medium heat, drain off any grease.
  • Add the diced onion and sauté 3-5 minutes.
  • Add the cabbage, tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, spices and stir well.
  • Cover and reduce heat to medium cooking for 15-18 minutes stirring occasionally.
  • Top with cheese!

Notes

Net carbs are 7.4 g per serving

Storage and Freezer Instructions

  • Refrigerator: store in an airtight container up to 4 days.
  • Reheat: microwave individual portions in 30 second increments until warm.
  • Freezer: I do not recommend freezing this dish. 

Meal Prep Instructions

Assemble the casserole without the cheese and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add cheese and warm through when ready to eat. 
Serving: 1 heaping cup, Calories: 240kcal, Carbohydrates: 9g, Protein: 18.9g, Fat: 14.4g, Cholesterol: 60.7mg, Sodium: 323mg, Fiber: 1.6g, Sugar: 3.7g
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