Stuffed cabbage casserole is a tasty and filling dish. It combines the flavors of classic stuffed cabbage rolls. Plus, it’s easy to make in a layered casserole style. This meal has tender cabbage, ground beef, rice, and a tasty tomato sauce. It’s a comforting dish for any night of the week.
What Is Stuffed Cabbage Casserole?
Stuffed cabbage casserole is a deconstructed version of classic stuffed cabbage rolls. This recipe makes it easier. Instead of rolling cabbage leaves with meat and rice, you layer the ingredients in a baking dish. It’s a fun way to taste stuffed cabbage without taking too much time to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to make – No need to roll individual cabbage leaves.
One-pan meal – Everything bakes in a single dish, making cleanup a breeze.
Great for meal prep – Tastes even better the next day.
Customizable – Use different meats, seasonings, or grains to fit your taste.
Ingredients List
Main Ingredients
1 medium head of cabbage (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
1 ½ pounds ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
1 medium onion (diced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 ½ cups uncooked rice (white or brown)
2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes (with juices)
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 ½ cups beef broth (or water)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Optional Toppings
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (for a cheesy topping)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat, then add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Spread half of the chopped cabbage in the greased baking dish.
Pour half of the beef and tomato mixture over the cabbage.
Sprinkle half of the uncooked rice evenly over the meat mixture.
Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage, meat mixture, and rice.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove the foil, stir the casserole gently, and if using cheese, sprinkle it on top.
Bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy.
Tips for the Best Stuffed Cabbage Casserole
Use fresh cabbage – It softens perfectly in the oven without becoming too mushy.
Let the casserole rest – This helps the flavors develop and makes serving easier.
Adjust the seasoning – Taste the sauce before baking and add extra salt, pepper, or spice if needed.
If using brown rice – Add an extra ¼ cup of broth and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
For extra richness – Add ½ cup sour cream to the meat mixture before layering.
Variations
Use ground turkey or chicken – A lighter alternative to beef.
Make it spicy – Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for heat.
Swap the rice – Use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
Make it vegetarian – Replace the meat with lentils or mushrooms.
What to Serve with Stuffed Cabbage Casserole
Garlic bread – Perfect for scooping up the rich tomato sauce.
Green salad – A fresh and crunchy side to balance the meal.
Roasted vegetables – Adds color and nutrients.
Mashed potatoes – A comforting pairing.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Let the casserole cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: ~350
Protein: ~25g
Carbohydrates: ~40g
Fat: ~10g
Fiber: ~6g
FAQs
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Do I Need to Cook the Cabbage Before Baking?
No, the cabbage softens while baking, so pre-cooking isn’t necessary.
What Type of Cheese Works Best?
Mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of both work well for a cheesy, melty topping.
How Do I Prevent the Casserole from Being Too Watery?
Make sure to drain the diced tomatoes slightly and avoid overcooking the cabbage before baking.
Conclusion
Stuffed cabbage casserole is a tasty and easy meal. It gives you all the flavors of classic stuffed cabbage rolls but with less work. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal prep, this dish is sure to be a hit.