Who says you can’t enjoy a rich, hearty Bolognese on a low-carb diet? We’re swapping traditional pasta for tender, shredded cabbage to create a satisfying and incredibly flavorful dish that comes together in minutes. This creamy, savory ‘Cabbage-nese’ is a game-changer, delivering all the comfort of the classic Italian sauce without the carbs. Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite weeknight meal!
Ingredients
• 1/4 cup / 21 g cooked green cabbage, shredded
• 1 oz / 25.5 g 85% lean ground beef, cooked
• 2 tbsp / 31 g heavy cream
• 1 tbsp / 15 g European-style butter
• 2 tsp / 10 g canned tomato puree
• 1.5 tsp / 6.5 g olive oil
• 1 tsp / 6 g Hellmann’s mayonnaise
• Pinch of Italian seasonings
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, cooked shredded cabbage, heavy cream, butter, tomato puree, olive oil, and mayonnaise.
2. Season the mixture with a pinch of Italian seasonings and salt and pepper to your liking.
3. Microwave on high for 60 to 90 seconds, or until the butter is fully melted and the sauce is heated through.
4. Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave. Stir vigorously to emulsify all the into a rich, creamy sauce.
5. Serve immediately, topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if using.
Nutritional Information
• This single-serving recipe is designed to be low-carb and keto-friendly, rich in healthy fats and protein. Nutritional values may vary based on the specific brands and used. Please calculate macros using your own for the most accurate information.
Pro Tips
• For the best texture, slice the cabbage into thin, noodle-like strips before cooking. Sautéing it in a pan until tender-crisp yields a better result than boiling.
• To elevate the flavor, brown the ground beef with a bit of minced garlic and onion before mixing it into the sauce.
• For an even creamier sauce, allow the butter and heavy cream to melt completely before stirring vigorously to emulsify all the fats.
• Feel free to add other low-carb vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this Cabbage Bolognese on the stovetop instead of the microwave
A: Absolutely! To make this on the stovetop, combine all ingredients in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently until the butter has melted and the sauce is heated through and creamy. This method works especially well for larger batches.
Q: Is this low carb Bolognese recipe good for meal prep
A: Yes, this recipe is excellent for meal prep. You can cook the ground beef and shred the cabbage in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, simply combine all the ingredients in a bowl and follow the microwave instructions for a quick and satisfying keto meal.
Q: What other vegetables can I use instead of cabbage
A: For a different take on this pasta-free Bolognese, you can substitute cabbage with other low-carb options. Zucchini noodles (zoodles), spaghetti squash, or shirataki noodles are all fantastic alternatives that pair wonderfully with the rich, creamy sauce.
