Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
The Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly) is a delightful dish that caters to those seeking a healthy yet flavorful meal. This recipe combines the satisfying taste of beef with the crunch of cabbage, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can serve up a nutritious meal in under 30 minutes. Whether you are hosting friends or simply enjoying dinner with family, this dish is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Ready in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of ground beef, salsa, and taco seasoning creates a rich and hearty flavor.
- Low Carb Delight: Perfect for those on a keto diet or anyone looking to reduce carbs without sacrificing taste.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize your skillet with various garnishes like sour cream, green onions, or guacamole to suit your tastes.
- Family-Friendly: A dish that appeals to both adults and kids alike, ensuring everyone enjoys their meal.

Tools and Preparation
To make the Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good-quality skillet ensures even cooking and browning of the ground beef.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements help maintain the balance of flavors in your dish.
Ingredients
The Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet features simple yet delicious ingredients:
Protein
- 1 pound of ground beef
Fats
- 2 tablespoon olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
Vegetables
- 4-5 cups of cabbage (shredded)
- ½ cup canned black beans
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1/2 cup of salsa (here’s my favorite kind)
- 3 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 3 tablespoon water
Cheese
- 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese (shredded, or other cheese)
Garnishes (Optional)
- sour cream
- green onions
- tomatoes
- jalapeno
- guacamole
- Pico de Gallo
How to Make Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain the excess fat.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Mix in salsa and taco seasoning into the cooked beef until well combined.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Beans
Add shredded cabbage, black beans, and water. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Taste for salt and black pepper.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally until cabbage is tender.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Remove from heat and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover again to let the cheese melt perfectly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with sour cream, green onions, avocado, or any favorite toppings as desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
This Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet is not only quick but also packed with flavor! Enjoy this easy-to-make dish any night of the week.
How to Serve Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
Serving the Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet can be a fun and creative experience. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with various toppings and sides.
Toppings
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and a tangy flavor that complements the spices.
- Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
- Avocado: Sliced or mashed avocado adds healthy fats and enhances the dish’s richness.
- Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa brings brightness and acidity, balancing the savory flavors of the skillet.
- Jalapeno: For those who enjoy heat, sliced jalapenos can add a spicy kick.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is perfect for adding texture and flavor to each bite.
Serving Suggestions
- Taco Shells: Serve in lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas for a traditional taco experience without the carbs.
- Cabbage Bowls: Use large cabbage leaves as bowls to hold the mixture for a fun presentation.
- Over Rice Cauliflower: Serve over cauliflower rice for an extra low-carb option that adds volume.
How to Perfect Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
To ensure your Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Seasoning: Adjust taco seasoning according to your taste. Adding more spices can enhance flavor depth.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh cabbage and quality ground beef for better taste and texture in your dish.
- Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking time; overcooked cabbage may become mushy. Aim for tender yet still crisp cabbage.
- Cheese Choice: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for unique flavors.
- Add Extra Veggies: Consider adding bell peppers or zucchini for more nutrients and variety in texture.
- Make Ahead: Prepare ingredients ahead of time to whip up this dish quickly on busy weeknights.
Best Side Dishes for Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
Pairing side dishes with your Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors while keeping it keto-friendly.
- Cauliflower Rice: A light and fluffy alternative to traditional rice that absorbs flavors well.
- Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini provides a nutritious base that pairs wonderfully with savory toppings.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a crispy element along with earthy flavors that balance the dish’s spices.
- Cheesy Broccoli Bake: A creamy, cheesy side that brings comfort while remaining low in carbs.
- Guacamole Salad: A refreshing mix of avocados, tomatoes, and lime juice that adds a zesty twist.
- Spicy Radish Chips: Crunchy radish chips seasoned with spices make an excellent low-carb snack alongside your skillet meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Overcooking the Cabbage: If you cook the cabbage too long, it can become mushy. Keep an eye on the simmering time and aim for tenderness without losing its texture.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Not adding enough salt or spices can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Using the Wrong Cheese: Some cheeses don’t melt well. Stick with mozzarella or another melting cheese for a gooey finish.
- Skipping the Drain Step: Failing to drain excess fat from the beef can make your dish greasy. Always drain after browning the meat for a cleaner taste.
- Not Covering While Simmering: Leaving the skillet uncovered while simmering can dry out the ingredients. Cover it to keep moisture in and enhance flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
- Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet.
Can I use other meats in this Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken work great as alternatives to beef while keeping it keto-friendly.
How do I customize my Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)?
Feel free to add different vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep.
What toppings are best for Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)?
Popular toppings include sour cream, avocado, green onions, and fresh tomatoes. Customize according to your taste!
Final Thoughts
The Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet is a delightful option that combines healthiness with great flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it easily based on your preferences or what’s on hand. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a satisfying meal that fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle!

Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Keto
Description
The Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet is a delicious and nutritious dish that brings together the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef and crunchy cabbage, making it an ideal choice for those on a keto diet or anyone looking to enjoy a low-carb meal. Ready in less than 30 minutes, this skillet meal is perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. It’s versatile too—customize it with your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado, or fresh salsa to suit your taste. With its hearty ingredients and quick preparation, this dish promises to satisfy everyone at the dinner table while keeping things healthy.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4–5 cups shredded cabbage
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup canned black beans
- ½ cup salsa
- 3 tablespoons taco seasoning
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in salsa and taco seasoning until well mixed.
- Add shredded cabbage, black beans, and water; stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 12 minutes until cabbage is tender.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, cover to melt.
- Garnish with desired toppings and serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the skillet (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg