Low-Carb Keto Cabbage Rolls: Savory, Easy, and Flavorful

Introduction

Say goodbye to boring, bland keto meals! These keto stuffed cabbage rolls are here to jazz up your dinner table and keep you on track with your low-carb goals. Picture this: tender cabbage leaves packed with a savory, beefy filling, topped with ooey-gooey mozzarella cheese and a rich tomato sauce. Sounds irresistible, right? Whether you’re a keto veteran or just dipping your toes into the low-carb pool, this recipe will have you doing the happy dance with every bite.

Key Takeaways

• Low-Carb Heaven: No rice, no problem! These stuffed cabbage rolls are perfectly keto-friendly, so you can enjoy without worrying about carbs.
• Easy Peasy: Simple ingredients, straightforward prep—this recipe is a breeze to make, even on a busy weeknight.
• Flavor Explosion: Packed with ground beef, veggies, and spices, these rolls are bursting with flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Cooking: Whether you prefer the oven or the Instant Pot, this recipe has got you covered.
• Meal Prep Magic: Make ahead, freeze, and reheat—these rolls are perfect for meal prepping and busy schedules.

Photo bySam Miller

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cabbage (your rollin’ superstar)
• 1 lb ground lean beef (grass-fed if you’re fancy)
• 2 large eggs (because binding is important, folks)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (for that sweet, sweet flavor)
• 1 small carrot, grated (a little crunch never hurt anyone)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (let’s keep those vampires away)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin, because we’re classy)
• 6 tbsp tomato paste (the tangy MVP)
• 3 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded (all the melty goodness)
• Salt and pepper to taste (season like you mean it)

Directions

Step 1: Prep the Cabbage Like a Pro

Start by giving that cabbage a hot bath in a large pot of salted water for about 10-15 minutes. This softens the leaves, making them super easy to roll. After it’s all steamed up, carefully remove the cabbage and let it cool for a bit. Core it, then peel off the leaves like you’re unwrapping a present—because you kinda are!

Step 2: Get Filling, Not Spilling

In a big ol’ mixing bowl, combine your ground beef, eggs, onion, carrot, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix it up real good. Now, grab those cabbage leaves, plop a couple of tablespoons of filling in the center, fold the sides in, and roll it up tighter than your favorite burrito. Repeat until all your filling is snugly wrapped.

Step 3: Bake or Instant Pot—Your Call!

• Oven Method: Preheat that oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your cabbage rolls seam-side down in a large, olive-oil-coated baking dish. Smear each roll with some tomato paste, pour a cup of water into the dish, cover with foil, and bake for an hour.
• Instant Pot Method: Got an Instant Pot? You fancy! Place a trivet inside, arrange your rolls on top, slather on the tomato paste, add a cup of water, and cook on low pressure for 30 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes before you dig in.

Step 4: Cheese, Please!

When the cooking’s done, remove the foil (or open the pot), and sprinkle that shredded mozzarella all over the rolls. Pop them back in the oven or keep the lid off in the Instant Pot for a few minutes until the cheese is all melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling extra.

Photo bySam Miller

Side Dish Ideas

These keto stuffed cabbage rolls are pretty much a meal in themselves, but if you’re looking to up your game, here are a few low-carb sides that pair perfectly:

• Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): A light and fresh twist to complement the hearty rolls.
• Keto Garlic Bread: Because what’s a saucy dish without some bread to soak it up?
• Cauliflower Rice: A keto classic that works as a perfect rice replacement.

Nutritional Facts & Prep/Cook Time

Nutritional Facts (Per Roll)

• Calories: 215 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 5.2g
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 13.5g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 8g
• Vitamin C: 70mg
• Calcium: 159mg
• Iron: 3mg

Prep and Cook Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour (or 30 minutes in the Instant Pot)
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (or 50 minutes with Instant Pot)

Photo bySam Miller

Conclusion

These kickin’ keto stuffed cabbage rolls are more than just a meal—they’re a party on your plate! With bold flavors, low-carb ingredients, and a cheesy finish, this dish is sure to become a regular in your keto recipe rotation. Whether you’re whipping them up for dinner tonight or freezing a batch for later, you’ll love the simplicity and satisfaction these rolls bring. So go ahead, roll with it, and enjoy every delicious bite!