One Skillet Stuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe

Made with tender shredded cabbage, seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, peppers, onions, and melted cheese, this Stuffed Cabbage Casserole is a simple low carb dinner that brings all the comfort of classic cabbage rolls without the extra work.

This easy one skillet cabbage casserole is hearty, flavorful, and ready in less than 30 minutes. It is a practical weeknight meal with bold tomato flavor, warm spices, and a satisfying cheesy finish the whole family can enjoy.

💚 About This Recipe

This stuffed cabbage casserole is a relaxed, weeknight-friendly version of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls. Instead of rolling cabbage leaves one by one, everything cooks together in a single skillet for a meal that is much faster but still rich, cozy, and satisfying.

The combination of ground beef, shredded cabbage, tomatoes with green chilies, bell peppers, onions, and cheddar jack cheese gives this dish plenty of texture and flavor. The cabbage softens as it cooks, the tomato mixture keeps everything juicy, and the cheese melts over the top for a comforting finish.

Because the recipe uses shredded cabbage and frozen pepper and onion strips, the prep time stays very short. It is a great option when you want a filling homemade dinner but do not want a sink full of dishes afterward. This one skillet stuffed cabbage casserole is also naturally low in carbs when served as written, making it a smart choice for anyone looking for an easy low carb cabbage recipe.

🧂 Ingredients Needed

• Ground beef – adds hearty flavor and protein. Extra lean ground beef works especially well, but ground turkey or ground chicken can also be used.
• Bell pepper and onion strips – frozen strips make this recipe quick and convenient. Fresh peppers and onions are also fine if you prefer to chop them yourself.
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies – bring tomato flavor and a mild kick. Use regular diced tomatoes if you want a less spicy casserole.
• Seasonings – paprika, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder give the beef and cabbage mixture warm, savory flavor.
• Shredded cabbage – the key ingredient for the unstuffed cabbage roll texture. Pre-shredded cabbage saves time.
• Cheddar jack cheese – melts beautifully over the casserole and adds a creamy, cheesy top layer.

🔪 Instructions

1. Place the ground beef, bell peppers, and onions in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook while breaking up the beef until the meat is almost fully browned.
2. Lightly drain the diced tomatoes with green chilies, then stir them into the skillet with the paprika, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Add the shredded cabbage on top of the beef and tomato mixture. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.

4. Remove the lid and stir the softened cabbage into the meat mixture so everything is evenly combined.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar jack cheese over the top. Cover again and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.

❔ FAQs

💭 Expert Tips and Tricks

• If your ground beef is not extra lean, drain off some of the grease after browning the meat.
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies add a pleasant kick, but plain diced tomatoes are a good substitute for a milder dish.
• Use more cheese on top if you prefer an extra cheesy stuffed cabbage casserole.
• Do not rush the covered cooking time. The cabbage needs time to soften and absorb flavor from the beef and tomato mixture.

📌 Low carb, hearty, and full of vegetables, this lazy cabbage roll casserole is perfect when you want comfort food without a lot of prep or cleanup.

💡 Substitutions and Variations

• To make the meal stretch further, stir in 1 to 2 cups of cooked rice. This will make the dish more filling, though it will no longer be as low carb.
• Add vegetables such as mushrooms, carrots, or broccoli for more texture, flavor, and nutrition.
• Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version.
• Season with salt and pepper if desired. Red pepper flakes can also be added for extra heat.
• Try a different shredded cheese if you prefer another flavor, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican-style cheese blend.

🥫 Storage and Reheating

Store leftover beef and cabbage casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot, or place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish and warm them in the oven.

This stuffed cabbage casserole can also be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

⏲️ Make Ahead Instructions

To save time, chop the cabbage, bell pepper, and onion ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you are ready to cook. You can also buy pre-shredded cabbage and frozen pepper and onion strips to keep the prep work especially simple.

🍴 What To Serve With This Dish

This one skillet stuffed cabbage casserole can stand on its own as a complete meal because it includes protein, vegetables, tomato sauce, and cheese. If you want to add a side dish, serve it with quinoa, roasted potatoes, cornbread casserole, or a simple green salad. For a low carb meal, pair it with a low carb bread or another vegetable-based side.

📋 Recipe Card