Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
The Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly) is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine in a healthy, low-carb format. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe highlights the versatility of cabbage while keeping your carb count low. With its savory beef, vibrant veggies, and melty cheese, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table or any gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Flavorful: Packed with spices and salsa, every bite bursts with flavor that satisfies your cravings.
- Versatile: Customize it with your favorite toppings like sour cream or guacamole for added delight.
- Healthy Option: Low in carbs and high in protein, it’s perfect for those on a keto diet.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required since everything cooks in one skillet!
Tools and Preparation
To whip up this Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet, you’ll need just a few essential kitchen tools to make the process smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet allows for even cooking without sticking, ensuring your ingredients brown nicely.
- Spatula: This tool helps you easily mix ingredients without damaging your skillet’s surface.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the right flavor balance in this dish.

Ingredients
For the Beef Mixture
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 2 tablespoon olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
- 1/2 cup of salsa (here’s my favorite kind)
For the Veggies
- 4-5 cups of cabbage (shredded)
- ½ cup canned black beans
For Flavoring
- 3 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 3 tablespoon water
For Topping
- 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese (shredded, or other cheese)
- salt and black pepper (to taste)
Optional Garnishes
- 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 any excess fat.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Mix in salsa and taco seasoning until well combined.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Beans
Add shredded cabbage, black beans, and water. Stir well to combine. Taste for salt and black pepper adjustments.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 12 minutes. Stir occasionally until the cabbage is tender.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with sour cream, green onions, avocado, or any other favorite toppings as desired. Serve warm for an enjoyable meal!
How to Serve Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
Serving the Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet can elevate your dining experience. This dish is versatile, and there are many ways to enhance its flavor and presentation.
Traditional Toppings
- Sour Cream: Adds a creamy texture and balances the spices.
- Green Onions: Fresh and crunchy, they provide a pop of color and flavor.
- Avocado: Creamy avocado slices or guacamole complement the dish beautifully.
- Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa gives a zesty kick that brightens up every bite.
Salad Pairing
- Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens helps refresh your palate.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw can add crunch and contrast to the warm skillet.
Additional Sides
- Cauliflower Rice: A great low-carb alternative to traditional rice, it absorbs flavors well.
- Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini makes for a fun, vegetable-based side that pairs perfectly with the skillet.
How to Perfect Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
To ensure your Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet turns out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Bold Seasoning: Don’t be shy with the taco seasoning; it’s key for flavor. Adjust to your taste preference for an extra kick.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh cabbage and quality ground beef for the best taste. Fresh ingredients enhance overall flavor and texture.
- Cook Evenly: Stir frequently while cooking to ensure even distribution of heat and flavors throughout the skillet.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a saucier dish, add a bit more salsa or water during cooking. This can help create a delightful sauce.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for varied flavors. Each cheese adds its own unique touch.
- Make Ahead: Prepare this dish in advance for easy reheating. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together!
Best Side Dishes for Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
Pairing side dishes with your Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some excellent options.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that enhances flavor while keeping carbs low. Serve it on the side or on top of the skillet.
- Spicy Roasted Cauliflower: Toss cauliflower florets in spices and roast until tender. It complements the taco flavors nicely.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with cheese and spices, then bake until soft. They add color and sweetness to your plate.
- Ratatouille: A medley of vegetables simmered together creates a flavorful side that’s also keto-friendly.
- Cucumber Salad: Lightly seasoned cucumber salad offers a refreshing crunch alongside your hearty skillet.
- Broccoli Slaw: Shredded broccoli mixed with a light dressing provides crunchiness without many carbs.
Enjoy making your Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet a complete meal with these serving ideas, tips, and sides!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing the Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.
- Incorrect Oil Temperature: Heating the oil too high or too low can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure your skillet is at medium-high heat for even browning of the ground beef.
- Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Each salsa has a different flavor profile. Taste your mixture after adding salsa and adjust taco seasoning as necessary to achieve the desired taste.
- Overcooking Cabbage: Cooking cabbage for too long can make it mushy. Aim for a tender texture by simmering just until it softens, usually around 12 minutes.
- Skipping Garnishes: Garnishes like sour cream and green onions add freshness and flavor. Don’t skip these; they enhance the overall experience of your meal.
- Not Measuring Ingredients: Accurate measurements ensure balanced flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons to avoid overwhelming the dish with too much seasoning or liquid.
- Forgetting to Drain Excess Fat: Leaving excess fat from the ground beef can make the dish greasy. Drain it after browning for a healthier meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
- Use a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Reheat on medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet.
What is a Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)?
A Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet is a quick and delicious dish made with ground beef, shredded cabbage, salsa, and spices, perfect for anyone following a keto diet.
Can I use other meats in this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef if you prefer leaner options.
How do I customize my Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet?
Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or use different cheeses based on your taste preferences.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it great for meal prep throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
The Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet is not just quick but also versatile. You can adjust flavors with your favorite toppings and ingredients. Enjoy this delightful dish any night of the week!
Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine with this Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet, a delectable keto-friendly dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a hearty meal featuring savory ground beef, colorful veggies, and melty cheese—all while keeping carbs to a minimum. This one-pan wonder not only simplifies cleanup but also allows for endless customization. Top it off with your favorite garnishes like guacamole or fresh pico de gallo for that extra touch of flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping or enjoying a family dinner, this dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4–5 cups shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup canned black beans
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons water
- salt and black pepper (to taste)
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 blended.
- Add shredded cabbage, black beans, and water; mix well.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium, cover, and simmer for about 12 minutes until cabbage is tender.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle cheese on top, cover for a few minutes to melt.
- Garnish with desired toppings and serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg