High-Protein Keto Cabbage Rolls

These are tender cabbage rolls filled with savory seasoned meat and baked in a rich tomato sauce — from the fresh cabbage leaves to the hearty finished dish. A comforting, high-protein classic made keto-friendly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy, flavorful filling wrapped in tender cabbage
• Extremely high protein from ground beef and egg
• Classic comfort food taste without the carbs
• Perfect for meal prep and family dinners
• One-pan baking with simple ingredients

Ingredients (Serves 6, about 12 rolls)

• 1 large head green cabbage
• 2 lbs (900g) ground beef (or mix with ground pork)
• 1 large egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Optional: ¼ cup almond flour or crushed pork rinds (for binding)

Sauce:

• 2 cups sugar-free marinara or crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Core the cabbage and boil the whole head for 8–10 minutes until leaves are pliable. Cool slightly and carefully peel off 12 large leaves. Set aside.
2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, egg, chopped onion, garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and almond flour/pork rinds (if using) until well combined.
4. Place a cabbage leaf flat, add a scoop of meat mixture, fold in sides, and roll tightly. Repeat with remaining leaves.
5. For the sauce: Mix marinara, olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Spread a thin layer in the bottom of a baking dish.
6. Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish. Pour remaining sauce over the top.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 45–55 minutes until cabbage is tender and internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Uncover for the last 10 minutes if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 45–55 minutes Total Time: 65–75 minutes

Nutrition (Per Serving — 2 rolls)

• Calories: ~380
• Protein: 35g (high)
• Total Carbs: 10g
• Net Carbs: 7g
• Fat: 22g