Easy Low Carb Mexican Lazy Cabbage Roll Casserole

Crispy, bubbly, and packed with flavor, this Easy Low Carb Mexican Lazy Cabbage Roll Casserole is a comforting meal that reminds you of home-cooked goodness. In just about an hour, you can bring this delicious dish to the table, and the best part is its simplicity. The combination of savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and zesty salsa creates a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

This recipe is perfect for families looking for a quick weeknight dinner or anyone following a low-carb lifestyle. Make it ahead of time and store it, so you always have a hearty meal ready to go after a long day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One pan means easy cleanup after a hearty meal.
• The mixture of spices creates a warm, inviting aroma in your kitchen.
• Customizable to suit your heat preference with different salsa choices.
• Melting cheese on top gives the casserole a delightful golden finish.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious casserole:

For the Casserole

• 6 cups cabbage, thinly sliced then chopped (a little less than 1 medium head)
• 1-1/2 pounds ground beef
• 2 cups salsa (jarred red, mild, medium or spicy)
• 12 ounces frozen cauliflower rice
• 1/4 cup tomato paste

For Cooking

• 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or fat of choice)
• 1 tablespoon oregano
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1-1/2 teaspoons sea salt
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (according to preference)

For Serving (Optional)

• 3 cups cheddar cheese (or jack, grated, or other favorite melting cheese)

Omit cheese for a Paleo, Whole30, or dairy-free option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ground turkey can replace ground beef.
• Use fresh cabbage instead of frozen if preferred.
• Swap salsa for diced tomatoes for a milder flavor.
• Choose nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a dairy-free option.

How to Make It

Follow these steps for a delightful casserole:

Cook Cauliflower Rice

In a large sauté pan, cook cauliflower rice in 1 tablespoon fat for 8 minutes over medium heat to melt and reduce water content. Remove cauliflower rice to a plate or bowl; set aside.

Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Brown Ground Beef

Add ground beef, remaining fat, and sea salt to the same sauté pan over medium-high heat. Cook, breaking up meat with a spatula, until most of the pink is gone, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add cauliflower rice, herbs, and spices: oregano, cumin, optional chili powder, garlic, and black pepper. Sauté an additional 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat.

Mix Cabbage

To the same large sauté pan (or use a large mixing bowl if the sauté pan isn’t big enough), add raw chopped cabbage, salsa, and tomato paste. Stir well.

Bake Casserole

Pour into a 9"x13" glass baking dish. Spread out and smooth the top slightly. Bake for 30 minutes.

Add Cheese

Top with grated cheese. (Cheese is optional; if not using, continue baking without it.) Bake for about 15 minutes more, until the cheese is well melted and golden brown and the casserole is cooked through, bubbly on the sides, hot and tender in the middle.

Serve

Serve on its own or with optional condiments like sour cream or cilantro. For dairy-free options, drizzle with dairy-free crema or serve with avocado/guacamole.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Yes, freeze before baking for easy meal prep.
Reheat: Microwave for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure cabbage is chopped evenly for uniform cooking.
• Use high-quality salsa for the best flavor profile.
• Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving for easier slicing.
• Adjust spice levels according to your taste preferences by varying salsa heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with avocado or guacamole for added creaminess.
• Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings as a hearty dish.