This Cabbage Roll Casserole combines tender cabbage, hearty ground meat, and tasty rice, all baked in a savory tomato sauce. It’s like a cozy hug in a dish!
I love how simple it is to whip up! Just mix everything together and let the oven do the magic. Perfect for busy weeknights—and leftovers are even better! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is the star of this dish. Its leaves are perfect for tender rolls. If you’re looking for alternatives, Savoy cabbage works well too; it’s a bit milder and softer. Bok choy could be a fun twist, but it’ll change the texture.
Ground Beef: I usually stick with beef, but you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, consider using lentils or a meat substitute, like textured vegetable protein (TVP) or a blend of beans.
Rice: Long grain white rice is traditional, but you can also use brown rice for more fiber, keeping in mind it may require a little more cooking liquid and time. Quinoa can be a protein-packed substitute, giving the dish a nice nutty flavor.
Tomato Sauce: Canned tomato sauce is convenient, but you can also use crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture. If you’re looking to reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium versions or even homemade tomato sauce.
How Do I Cook Cabbage Perfectly?
Cooking cabbage can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by boiling water in a large pot. This helps soften the cabbage quickly.
- Chop the cabbage into manageable pieces, then add them to the boiling water for about 5 minutes.
- Watch closely; you want the cabbage tender but not mushy. Drain it well, as excess water can make your casserole watery.
Taking these simple steps ensures your cabbage will have the right texture and flavor to complement your casserole. Enjoy your cooking! 🌟
Cabbage Roll Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups tomato sauce (or canned tomato sauce)
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Topping (Optional):
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cabbage Roll Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour to bake, giving you a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a comforting family meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot by the time your casserole is ready to bake.
2. Prep the Cabbage:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the chopped cabbage to the boiling water and cook for about 5 minutes until it’s slightly tender. This will soften the cabbage and make it easier to combine in the casserole. Once done, drain the cabbage and set it aside.
3. Cook the Meat:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened. Next, add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Be sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Stir in the uncooked rice, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well. Then, add the tomato sauce and beef broth (or water), stirring to combine. Let it simmer for a few minutes to let the flavors blend together.
5. Fold in the Cabbage:
Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the cooked cabbage, mixing it so it’s evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×9 inch (or similar size) baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This is where all the deliciousness will meld together in the oven!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let It Rest:
Once it’s done baking, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve.
Enjoy this hearty, comforting casserole that captures all the flavors of classic cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling! Perfect for a cozy family dinner! 🥘
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version. Just adjust cooking times as necessary to ensure any poultry is fully cooked.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time! Simply assemble it (without baking) and cover it tightly before storing it in the refrigerator. Bake it directly from the fridge, but you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months—just be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn! Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. Just chop them finely and add them when cooking the meat so they have time to soften and blend with the other flavors.
