Cabbage Roll Casserole

How to Make Cabbage Roll Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is browned and the onion is soft—about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Add the Cabbage and Seasonings

Once the beef is browned, add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage starts to soften and reduce in volume.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Rice

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Add the cooked rice and stir everything together until well combined. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Transfer to a Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the beef and cabbage mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the mixture out evenly.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. This allows the cabbage to continue cooking and softens all the ingredients together. If you’re adding cheese, remove the foil after the baking time and sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This dish is perfect on its own or served with a side salad and crusty bread.

Tips for the Best Cabbage Roll Casserole

• Rice Substitutes: If you prefer, you can use quinoa, farro, or another grain instead of rice for a different flavor or texture.
• Make It Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for lentils or vegetarian sausage. You can also use a plant-based cheese for a dairy-free version.
• Season to Taste: Adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter tomato flavor, you can add a small amount of brown sugar or honey. For a tangier twist, a splash of vinegar or lemon juice can bring a fresh contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Leftovers: Cabbage Roll Casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and makes for great leftovers. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months for an easy meal down the road.
• Cheese Options: While cheddar and mozzarella are classic cheese choices for topping, feel free to experiment with others like parmesan, gruyère, or even a bit of feta for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.

Conclusion

This Cabbage Roll Casserole is an absolute winner when you want to enjoy all the flavors of cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling up individual pieces. It’s a comforting, satisfying, and family-friendly dish that’s easy to prepare and full of wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a filling weeknight dinner or a meal to feed a crowd, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

Give it a try the next time you’re craving something hearty and flavorful. With its combination of savory beef, tender cabbage, and rich tomato sauce, this casserole will surely become your go-to comfort food!