These delicious cabbage cups are filled with savory seasoned ground beef and topped with melted cheese. A comforting, low-carb-style dinner inspired by stuffed cabbage recipes.
Ingredients
- 1 small green cabbage
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cabbage
Cut the cabbage into thick wedges or large cups. Carefully loosen the center leaves to create space for the filling.
2. Cook the Filling
Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add onion and cook for 2–3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
3. Add Seasonings
Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Fill the Cabbage
Place cabbage cups in a baking dish. Spoon the beef mixture generously into the center of each cabbage piece.
5. Bake
Cover loosely with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, until the cabbage is tender.
6. Add Cheese
Remove the foil and top each cabbage cup with mozzarella cheese. Bake for another 5–10 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes golden.
7. Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or dill and serve hot!
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: About 55 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
Nut Information
Naturally nut-free if all ingredients are standard and contain no nuts.
Always check packaged ingredients, especially:
- Shredded cheese
- Tomato sauce
- Seasoning blends
These may be processed in facilities that handle nuts.
Q&A
Q: Can I use ground chicken or turkey?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works perfectly.
Q: Can I make this low-carb?
Yes! This recipe contains no rice and is a great lower-carb alternative to traditional stuffed cabbage.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Prepare the beef filling and cabbage up to one day ahead. Assemble and bake when ready.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Yes! Freeze cooked portions for up to 2 months.