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Healthy Baked Cabbage Rolls Recipe High Protein Low Carb Dinner

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These healthy baked cabbage rolls are packed with lean protein, loaded with flavor, and naturally low in carbohydrates. They’re perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, meal prep, or anyone following a low-carb or keto-friendly lifestyle.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • High in protein
  • Low in carbs
  • Gluten-free
  • Family-friendly
  • Great for meal prep
  • Rich in vitamins and minerals

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls

  • 1 large green cabbage
  • 1½ pounds (680g) lean ground turkey or extra-lean ground beef
  • 1 cup cauliflower rice
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Tomato Sauce

  • 1 can (15 oz) no-sugar-added tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
  2. Remove the core from the cabbage.
  3. Carefully place the whole cabbage into the boiling water.
  4. Cook for 3–5 minutes, peeling off softened leaves as they loosen.
  5. Set 12–14 large leaves aside and allow them to cool.

Step 2: Make the Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
    • Ground turkey or beef
    • Cauliflower rice
    • Onion
    • Garlic
    • Egg
    • Paprika
    • Italian seasoning
    • Salt and pepper
    • Fresh parsley
  2. Mix until everything is evenly combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

  1. In a bowl, stir together:
    • Tomato sauce
    • Tomato paste
    • Garlic powder
    • Italian seasoning
    • Salt
    • Pepper

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

  1. Trim the thick center vein from each cabbage leaf.
  2. Place about ¼ cup of filling near the stem end.
  3. Fold in the sides and roll tightly like a burrito.
  4. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down.
  4. Pour remaining sauce over the rolls.
  5. Cover tightly with foil.
  6. Bake for 45–55 minutes until the meat is fully cooked and the cabbage is tender.

Nutrition (Per Serving – 2 Rolls)

  • Calories: 280
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Net Carbs: 5g
  • Fat: 12g

Tips for Success

  • Use lean ground turkey for a lighter version.
  • Cauliflower rice keeps the rolls low-carb while adding texture.
  • Make a double batch and freeze for future meals.
  • Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

These healthy baked cabbage rolls deliver hearty comfort-food flavor while keeping carbs low and protein high, making them an excellent choice for a nutritious dinner

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