Description
This Stuffed Cabbage Casserole recipe is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the classic flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls into a simple, casserole form. Ground beef, rice, and savory tomato-based sauce are layered with chopped cabbage and baked to tender perfection, making it an ideal family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 small head green cabbage (chopped, about 6 cups)
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
Liquids and Sauces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can diced tomatoes (15 ounces)
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 ounces)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release flavors.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and thyme. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, then drain any excess grease to reduce fat content.
- Prepare Sauce: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes on low heat to blend flavors.
- Add Rice: Remove skillet from heat and stir in cooked rice until evenly combined with the beef and sauce mixture.
- Layer Casserole: Spread half of the chopped cabbage evenly in the greased baking dish. Layer half of the beef and rice mixture over the cabbage. Repeat with remaining cabbage and beef mixture in alternating layers.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove foil, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top (if using), and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese has melted.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and make serving easier.
Notes
- For a lower-fat option, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
- Cook rice ahead of time to streamline preparation.
- The mozzarella cheese is optional; omit for a dairy-free version or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, add crushed red pepper flakes when seasoning the beef.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
