Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
The Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly) is a delightful and healthy twist on traditional tacos. This dish combines the rich flavors of seasoned beef with crisp cabbage, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or meal prep. In under 30 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal that fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply looking for a quick dinner, this skillet recipe is sure to impress with its taste and simplicity.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for hectic evenings.
- Keto-Friendly: Perfect for those following a low-carb or keto diet, keeping you on track while enjoying flavorful meals.
- Flavor Packed: Bursting with savory taco spices and fresh ingredients, every bite is delicious.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite toppings like sour cream or guacamole for added flair.
- Easy Cleanup: One skillet means less time washing dishes after enjoying your tasty creation.

Tools and Preparation
To make the Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet effortlessly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that can help streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good quality skillet allows for even cooking and browning of the beef.
- Spatula: Essential for stirring and flipping ingredients without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring Cups: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent flavor every time.
Ingredients
The Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet features simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully.
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 2 tablespoon olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
- 1/2 cup of salsa
- 4-5 cups of cabbage (shredded)
- 3 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 3 tablespoon water
- 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese (shredded, or other cheese)
- salt and black pepper (to taste)
- ½ cup canned black beans
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 the salsa and taco seasoning until well combined.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Beans
Add cabbage, black beans, and water to the mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper as needed.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce 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 shredded cheese on top. Cover again to let the cheese melt into a gooey topping.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with optional toppings such as sour cream, green onions, avocado, or any favorite garnishes you desire. Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
Serving your Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet is key to enhancing its flavors and making it a complete meal. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.
With Toppings
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess that balances the spices.
- Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
- Avocado: Slices or guacamole give a rich, buttery texture that complements the dish.
Pair with Fresh Ingredients
- Tomatoes: Fresh diced tomatoes brighten the dish and add juiciness.
- Jalapeno: For those who enjoy heat, sliced jalapenos bring a spicy kick.
- Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa enhances the flavors with its zesty ingredients.
Serve with Low Carb Bread
- Cloud Bread: Light and fluffy, cloud bread is an excellent low carb alternative for scooping up the skillet.
- Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves as wraps for a fun and healthy way to enjoy each bite.
How to Perfect Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
Creating the perfect Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet is all about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.
- Use Fresh Cabbage: Freshly shredded cabbage has better texture and flavor compared to pre-packaged options.
- Choose Quality Meat: Opt for grass-fed ground beef for a richer taste and healthier fats.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the taco seasoning based on your spice preference; try adding cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Mix in Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for varied flavors.
- Cook Until Tender: Ensure the cabbage is cooked until soft but not mushy; this enhances both taste and presentation.
- Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the skillet to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
Pairing side dishes with your Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options to consider:
- Cauliflower Rice: A light, low carb alternative to traditional rice that absorbs flavors well. Simply steam or sauté until tender.
- Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini provides a fresh, crunchy texture. Serve raw or lightly sautéed with olive oil.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These veggies bring a nutty flavor when roasted, making them a perfect contrast to the skillet’s richness.
- Cheesy Broccoli Bake: Steamed broccoli topped with melted cheese adds both nutrition and comfort to your meal.
- Avocado Salad: A simple salad with diced avocado, lime juice, and cilantro refreshes the palate alongside your skillet dish.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots offers crunch while staying in line with your low carb goals.
- Guacamole Dip: Creamy guacamole can be served as an additional dip alongside tortilla chips or veggie sticks for snacking.
- Pickled Jalapenos: Adding pickled jalapenos provides an extra layer of flavor with their tangy zestiness, enhancing each bite of the skillet.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can help you create the best Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using too much oil: Using excessive oil can make the dish greasy. Stick to 2 tablespoons for a healthier option.
- Overcooking cabbage: Cooking cabbage too long can result in mushy texture. Simmer just until tender, about 12 minutes.
- Ignoring seasoning balance: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always check and adjust salt and taco seasoning.
- Choosing low-quality salsa: Low-quality salsa can affect the overall taste. Select a fresh, flavorful salsa for better results.
- Not garnishing properly: Skipping garnishes can make your dish less appealing. Add toppings like sour cream or green onions for extra flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about the Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you prefer a leaner meat option.
Is the Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep throughout the week.
How can I customize my Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Swap ground beef with a plant-based protein or omit it altogether for a veggie version.
Final Thoughts
The Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare. This versatile recipe allows you to customize it according to your tastes and preferences. Try adding different toppings or veggies to make it your own!
Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet (Keto-Friendly)
Experience a flavorful twist on traditional tacos with this Low Carb Cabbage Taco Skillet. This keto-friendly dish features seasoned ground beef melded with crunchy cabbage, delivering a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Keto
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 4–5 cups shredded cabbage
- 3 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 3 tablespoons water
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup canned black beans
- salt and black pepper to taste
- optional: sour cream, green onions, tomatoes, jalapeno, guacamole, Pico de Gallo
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 fully combined.
- Add shredded cabbage, black beans, and water; mix well and season to taste.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover for about 12 minutes until cabbage is tender.
- Remove from heat; sprinkle cheese on top and cover to melt.
- Garnish with optional toppings before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe (about 250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg