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– 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
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For the **Cabbage**:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the **Casserole Assembly**:
– 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce (or your favorite pasta sauce)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
## Instructions:
### Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
To start, preheat your **oven to 375°F (190°C)**, so it’s ready for the casserole later. Then, in a large bowl, combine the **ground beef**, **breadcrumbs**, **Parmesan cheese**, **egg**, **garlic**, **parsley**, **salt**, **pepper**, **onion powder**, and **oregano**. Mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overwork the meat mixture, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Once the mixture is ready, roll it into **1-inch meatballs** and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This step will allow you to bake the meatballs separately before adding them to the casserole.
### Step 2: Bake the Meatballs
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about **15-20 minutes**, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should reach **160°F (71°C)**. Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and set them aside while you prepare the cabbage.
### Step 3: Prepare the Cabbage
While the meatballs are baking, chop the **cabbage** into bite-sized pieces. In a large skillet, heat the **olive oil** over medium heat. Add the chopped cabbage, **salt**, and **pepper**, and sauté for about **5-7 minutes**, or until the cabbage is softened but still has a little bit of crunch. Stir occasionally to prevent it from burning or sticking to the pan.
Once the cabbage is ready, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
### Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Now it’s time to put everything together! In a large baking dish, spread the sautéed cabbage evenly on the bottom. Top the cabbage with the baked **meatballs**, arranging them in a single layer. Spoon a little **marinara sauce** over each meatball, and then sprinkle with a generous amount of **mozzarella cheese**. Finish it off by adding a sprinkle of **Parmesan cheese** over the top for an extra touch of flavor.
### Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for an additional **15-20 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. You want the casserole to be hot and the flavors to meld together beautifully.
### Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the casserole is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the casserole with a side of crusty bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
## Why You’ll Love This Casserole:
### 1. **Simple to Prepare**:
This casserole is incredibly easy to make. With minimal prep work and straightforward steps, you can have a comforting, delicious meal on the table in no time.
### 2. **Hearty and Satisfying**:
The combination of savory **meatballs**, tender **cabbage**, and melted **cheese** makes this casserole a satisfying dish that will fill you up without being overly heavy. It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion!
### 3. **Budget-Friendly**:
This recipe is easy on the wallet, using affordable ingredients like **ground beef**, **cabbage**, and **cheese**. It’s a great option for feeding a family without breaking the bank.
### 4. **Customizable**:
Feel free to customize the casserole to your liking! You can add extra vegetables, like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini, for added nutrition and flavor. If you prefer a different type of cheese, feel free to swap the mozzarella for cheddar or provolone, or even try a combination of cheeses.
### 5. **Make Ahead & Freezer-Friendly**:
This casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. It also freezes beautifully, so you can make a double batch and store one for later.
## Tips for Success:
– **Even Meatballs**: Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to ensure your meatballs are all the same size for even cooking.
– **Sauté Cabbage Lightly**: You don’t need to cook the cabbage too much before adding it to the casserole. A light sauté ensures it keeps its texture in the final bake.
– **Add Extra Flavor**: For a little extra flavor, you can sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top of the casserole or mix in some Italian seasoning with the cabbage.
– **Rest Before Serving**: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to settle and make serving easier.
## Final Thoughts:
This **Casserole with Meatballs and Cabbage** is the ultimate comfort food that’s simple to make yet bursting with flavor. With just a few ingredients, you create a warm, filling meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something you can prep ahead for busy days, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
So, the next time you’re craving a cozy, one-dish meal, give this easy-to-bake casserole a try—you won’t regret it!
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