Description
Low-Carb Cabbage Taco Bowl
Ingredients:
1 lb lean ground beef
1 tbsp minced onion
1/4 cup low-carb taco seasoning
5 cups shredded cabbage
1/4 cup water
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
Brown ground beef in a skillet and drain any fat.
Mix in minced onion, taco seasoning, and water. Combine well.
Add cabbage and cook until tender, stirring occasionally.
Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, cover, and cook for 5 minutes.
Serve warm for a hearty, low-carb taco-inspired meal!
Switch up the cheese to pepper jack for extra spice!
#TacoCabbageBowl
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect Low-Carb Cabbage Taco Bowl every time.
- Brown the Beef: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb of lean ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is fully browned and no pink remains. Carefully drain the excess fat from the skillet.
- Season the Base: Reduce the heat to medium. To the cooked beef, add 1 tbsp of minced onion, 1/4 cup of low-carb taco seasoning, and 1/4 cup of water. Stir thoroughly until the seasoning is evenly distributed and a fragrant sauce forms.
- Cook the Cabbage: Add 5 cups of shredded cabbage to the skillet. Stir well to combine it with the seasoned beef mixture. Continue cooking for 8-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage has wilted and reached your desired tenderness.
- Add the Cheese: Evenly sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the entire surface of the beef and cabbage mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Final Touch: Remove the skillet from the heat. Give the mixture one final gentle stir to incorporate some of the melted cheese throughout before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile bowl is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with simple toppings. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or full-fat Greek yogurt, a spoonful of salsa or pico de gallo, sliced avocado or guacamole, and fresh cilantro. For a complete meal, serve it over a bed of crisp romaine lettuce or with a side of sliced bell peppers for extra crunch.
How-to Summary
Brown ground beef, drain fat. Mix in onion, taco seasoning, and water. Add shredded cabbage and cook until tender. Top with cheese, cover to melt, and serve warm with your favorite low-carb toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work well. Adjust cooking times as needed and ensure they are fully cooked before adding seasoning.
What if my mixture is too watery? Excess liquid usually comes from the cabbage. Simply cook the mixture uncovered for a few extra minutes to allow the water to evaporate before adding the cheese.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can store the cooked beef and cabbage mixture (without cheese) in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet and add fresh cheese when ready to serve.
Is pre-packaged coleslaw mix a good substitute? Yes, a 14-ounce bag of coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots) is a perfect time-saver. The carrots add a slight sweetness but minimal extra carbs.
How do I store leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Skillet: Using a skillet that’s too small will steam the cabbage instead of sautéing it, leading to a soggy texture. Use a large, wide pan.
- Underseasoning: Lean ground beef and cabbage need bold flavor. Don’t skimp on the taco seasoning. Taste the mixture before adding cheese and adjust if necessary.
- Overcooking the Cabbage: Cook the cabbage just until tender-crisp unless you prefer it very soft. Overcooking can make it mushy and release too much water.
- Adding Cheese Too Early: Only add the cheese at the very end, once the cabbage is cooked and any excess liquid has evaporated, to ensure smooth melting.
Conclusion
This Low-Carb Cabbage Taco Bowl is more than just a recipe; it’s a simple, satisfying solution for anyone craving classic taco flavors without the carbs. It comes together quickly in one skillet, minimizes cleanup, and is endlessly customizable with your favorite toppings and protein swaps. Whether you’re following a specific diet or simply looking for a delicious, hearty weeknight meal, this dish is sure to become a regular in your rotation. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting, flavor-packed bowl any night of the week.
