Savor These Simple Keto Cabbage Recipes for Delicious Meals
keto cabbage recipes are my secret weapon on weeks when I want cozy, satisfying food without a lot of fuss. If you ever stare at a head of cabbage and think now what, this is for you. I love how cabbage turns sweet and tender with just a little heat, and it holds up beautifully with creamy sauces or smoky sausage. These are the kind of meals that taste like you cooked all afternoon, even if dinner lands on the table in 30 minutes. Let me show you what I make on repeat, with simple steps, clean ingredients, and plenty of flavor. You will be surprised how far one humble veggie can take you. 
What is Cabbage Casserole?
Cabbage casserole is comfort food you can feel good about. Picture tender ribbons of cabbage tucked into a creamy, cheesy base, then baked until the edges turn golden and the center is rich and bubbly. It has all the cozy vibes of a classic casserole but keeps carbs in check by leaning on low carb veggies and fat for flavor instead of pasta or rice.
In my kitchen, this casserole shows up when I want a one-pan solution. I shred the cabbage, sauté it to take off the raw bite, fold it with a simple cream sauce, and top with a handful of sharp cheddar. The oven does the rest. It sets up like a layered hug and tastes even better the next day.
Why it works on keto
Cabbage is naturally low in carbs, loaded with fiber, and super-friendly to budget and meal prep. Pairing it with fat from heavy cream, butter, or cheese makes it filling without needing starch. The texture stays sturdy, so the casserole does not go mushy, and the mild flavor gives you room to play with spices. Add smoked paprika for warmth, a pinch of nutmeg for a classic creamy vibe, or crushed red pepper for a tiny kick.
“I made your cabbage casserole for my picky teen, and he asked for seconds. We never agree on dinner, so that was a lovely surprise.”
Here is the fun part. This base is super adaptable. You can add cooked ground beef or rotisserie chicken for a heartier bake. Swap the cheese for whatever you have. The goal is a creamy, bubbling pan that makes the house smell amazing and gives you an easy dinner that fits right into keto.
What ingredients do you need for low carb Cabbage Casserole?
Nothing complicated. You probably have most of this on hand. Here is what I reach for when I want a dependable, weeknight-friendly bake:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter or avocado oil
- 1 small onion, minced (optional, but adds flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar or gouda, divided
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional add-ins: cooked bacon bits, chopped chives, or grated Parmesan on top
Smart substitutions
If dairy is not your thing, you can use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and a dairy-free cheese that melts well. If you do not have cream cheese, whisk an extra egg into the cream to help the sauce set. For more protein, fold in browned ground turkey or leftover shredded chicken right before it goes into the oven. The recipe stays friendly to keto and does not lose that comforting, creamy finish.
Pro tip: slice the cabbage thin so it softens evenly. If you like a little bite, do not overcook it on the stovetop before baking. That way it still has lift in the final dish.
How to Make Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
This is the fast skillet dinner I turn to when the day is long and my patience is short. It is smoky, buttery, and hits the table in about 25 minutes. Keep a pack of smoked sausage in the fridge and you are halfway there.
Step-by-step
- Slice 12 ounces of smoked sausage into coins. A diagonal cut gives more browned edges.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high with 1 tablespoon avocado oil. Sear the sausage until browned on both sides. Remove to a plate.
- Add 2 tablespoons butter to the skillet along with half a minced onion and 2 cloves garlic. Sauté 1 to 2 minutes.
- Dump in 6 to 8 cups thinly sliced cabbage. Toss with 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.
- Cook, stirring, until the cabbage softens and gets a few golden edges, about 6 to 8 minutes. If it looks dry, splash in 2 to 3 tablespoons chicken broth.
- Return the sausage to the pan. Stir in 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard and 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar for brightness.
- Taste and adjust. I usually add a pinch of red pepper flakes and a knob of butter to finish. Serve hot and enjoy the cozy skillet magic.
Make ahead and storage
This skillet keeps 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth. I like to portion it into lunch boxes with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives. It is a quick, satisfying meal that fits right in with keto cabbage recipes, and it tastes just as good the next day.
What Type of Smoked Sausage Should I Use?
Pick a sausage that tastes great on its own, because it flavors the entire skillet. I reach for fully cooked smoked sausage or kielbasa with simple ingredients and no added sugars. If you prefer extra spice, andouille adds a nice kick. If you want something milder, turkey sausage works well and still browns beautifully. The trick is to slice it so more surface area crisps up in the pan, and to give it space to sear before you stir.
Check the label. Some brands add fillers or sweeteners that can bump carbs. You do not need a fancy option here. You just want clean ingredients, good smoke, and a firm texture that will not dry out. If you have access to a local butcher, ask for their house-smoked link and you will likely get incredible flavor for a fair price.
One more note. If you use uncooked sausages like Italian sausage, remove the casings and brown the meat first. Then proceed with the cabbage. This keeps the texture juicy and makes sure the pan does not get greasy.
Tips for Making Cabbage with Sausage
Small details that make a big difference
Use a big skillet so the cabbage can make contact with the heat. Crowding keeps it steaming instead of caramelizing. Those golden edges are where the flavor lives.
Season in layers. Salt the sausage as it browns, season the cabbage as it softens, then adjust right before serving. It is a simple habit that adds depth without extra work.
Balance richness with acidity. A splash of vinegar or squeeze of lemon brightens the whole pan. I also like a tiny spoon of Dijon for gentle heat and tang.
Do not skip the butter at the end. Even a teaspoon helps the flavors bloom and gives you that glossy finish. It is such a small move yet it turns a good skillet into a great one.
If you want to stretch the meal, add a handful of sliced mushrooms or zucchini coins during the sauté. They soak up the smoky fat and keep the dish satisfying while staying in the lane of keto cabbage recipes. Finish with chopped parsley or chives for color and fresh flavor.
Common Questions
Can I make the casserole without dairy?
Yes. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cheese that melts well. Add one beaten egg to help the sauce set.
How do I keep cabbage from getting soggy?
Cook it hot and do not crowd the pan. Aim for light browning and stop when it is just tender. It will soften more in the oven or as it rests.
What sides go well with these dishes?
A simple green salad, roasted broccoli, or sliced avocado works great. Keep it fresh and crunchy to balance the rich skillet or casserole.
Can I freeze cabbage casserole?
Yes, after baking and cooling. Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Reheat covered at 350 F until hot, then uncover to crisp the top.
How spicy should I make it?
It is your call. Start mild with smoked paprika, then add red pepper flakes or andouille if you like heat. Taste as you go.
A Cozy Low Carb Win for Any Night
If you are craving comfort that still fits your goals, these keto cabbage recipes deliver. The casserole is creamy and crowd-pleasing, and the sausage skillet is fast, smoky, and deeply satisfying. Cabbage does the heavy lifting and proves you can eat well without complicated steps. Give one a try this week and let that simple, savory goodness take the pressure off dinner.
Keto Cabbage Casserole and Sausage Skillet
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Shred the cabbage and sauté in butter or oil to reduce the raw bite.
- Combine cabbage with heavy cream, cream cheese, half of the shredded cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake until bubbly and golden, approximately 25-30 minutes.
- Slice smoked sausage into coins.
- Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the sausage until browned.
- Remove sausage from skillet and add butter, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Add cabbage, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking until cabbage softens and gets golden edges, about 6-8 minutes.
- Return sausage to pan, stir in mustard and apple cider vinegar, and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy.