Keto Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe

Welcome to a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for your ketogenic lifestyle: Keto Cheesy Cabbage Casserole. This delicious casserole combines the hearty texture of cabbage with a rich blend of cheeses, making it a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Low in carbs but high in flavor, this recipe is ideal for those looking to enjoy a warm and cheesy dish without straying from their dietary goals.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Net Carbs per Serving: 4g

Ingredients

For this Keto Cheesy Cabbage Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 medium head of green cabbage (approximately 2 pounds), chopped
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 2 cups (240g) shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1 cup (120g) cream cheese (softened)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (150g) cooked and crumbled bacon
  • 1/2 cup (75g) chopped green onions (for garnish)

Kitchen Tools Needed

  • Large pot or saucepan
  • Baking dish (9×13 inches)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole cooks evenly.
  2. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. This helps the cabbage cook thoroughly and blend well with the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Cabbage

  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until it is tender but not mushy.
  2. Once cooked, drain the cabbage and let it sit in the colander for a few minutes to remove excess water. This step is crucial to avoid a watery casserole.

Step 3: Mix the Cheesy Filling

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and heavy cream. Whisk together until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add the eggs to the mixture, followed by the garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  3. Fold in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese into the creamy mixture, reserving the remaining cheese for topping.

Step 4: Combine Cabbage and Cheese Mixture

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained cabbage and the cheesy egg mixture. If you are adding bacon, incorporate it at this stage. Mix well to ensure the cabbage is fully coated with the creamy mixture.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

  1. Grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with a bit of cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Pour the cabbage and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 6: Add Toppings

  1. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious, gooey cheese layer as it bakes.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

  1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

  1. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This will help the casserole set and make it easier to serve.
  2. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired before slicing into portions.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 300
  • Total Fat: 24g
  • Net Carbs: 4g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 2g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints

  • SmartPoints: 6

Tips and Variations

  1. Add Protein: For an extra protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken or ground beef to the mixture. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish more filling.
  2. Cheese Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gouda, mozzarella, or a blend of sharp and mild cheddar can provide varying flavor profiles.
  3. Spice it Up: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
  4. Vegetable Additions: Other low-carb vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can be added to the mix for added nutrients and flavor.
  5. Meal Prep: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time. Simply assemble it the day before, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it the next day for a quick and easy meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Keto Cheesy Cabbage Casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables. It can also serve as a hearty main dish, perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week.

Conclusion

The Keto Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is a delicious and versatile dish that brings comfort food to your table while keeping your carb intake in check. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this casserole is sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also provides a nutritious option that satisfies cravings without compromising your dietary goals. Enjoy this delightful recipe and feel free to customize it to suit your taste!