Go Back

Keto Stuffed Cabbage Rolls – Comforting, Low-Carb, and Satisfying

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large head green cabbage (choose one with wide, flexible leaves)
  • 1 pound ground beef (80–85% lean) or a mix of beef and pork
  • 1/2 pound ground pork (optional but adds richness)
  • 1 small onion, finely minced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup finely riced cauliflower (fresh or thawed frozen, squeezed dry)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional for warmth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 (14–15 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (no added sugar)
  • 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth (low-sodium)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon monk fruit or erythritol sweetener (optional, to balance acidity)
  • Fresh basil or more parsley for garnish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the cabbage: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Core the cabbage and carefully remove any damaged outer leaves. Submerge the head and simmer 5–7 minutes, peeling off softened leaves with tongs as they loosen. Set leaves on a towel to drain. Trim thick ribs so leaves roll easily.
  2. Make the sauce: In a saucepan, warm 1 tablespoon oil over medium heat. Add half the minced onion and 1 clove garlic; cook 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, broth, tomato paste, vinegar, and sweetener (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Simmer 10 minutes, then set aside.
  3. Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork (if using), remaining onion, 2 cloves garlic, riced cauliflower, egg, Parmesan, parsley, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
  4. Assemble the rolls: Lay a cabbage leaf flat. Place 1/4 to 1/3 cup filling near the base. Fold the sides over, then roll up tightly like a burrito. Repeat until all filling is used. If leaves are small, overlap two to make one larger roll.
  5. Layer in the pot: Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a Dutch oven or deep skillet. Nestle the rolls seam-side down in a single layer. Spoon remaining sauce over the top. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon oil.
  6. Cook: Cover and simmer on low for 45–60 minutes, until the meat is cooked through and the cabbage is very tender. Alternatively, bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for 60–75 minutes.
  7. Finish and serve: Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or a splash more vinegar as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil. Serve hot with a side of sautéed greens or a simple salad.