Cabbage Roll Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that captures all the classic flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling. With layers of tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, rice, and a savory tomato sauce, this casserole is a perfect weeknight meal that’s both filling and family-friendly.

ingredients

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

ground beefoniongarliccabbagericetomato saucecrushed tomatoeschicken or beef brotholive oilsaltpepperpaprikaoregano

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onion and garlic until fragrant.

Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.

Stir in the uncooked rice, tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, and broth. Simmer for 5 minutes.

In the prepared baking dish, spread half of the chopped cabbage on the bottom.

Pour the meat and rice mixture over the cabbage layer and spread evenly.

Top with the remaining cabbage and cover tightly with aluminum foil.

Bake for 1 hour, then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the casserole is bubbly.

Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesBaking time: 1 hour 15-20 minutesResting time: 10 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor.

Use pre-cooked rice to shorten the cooking time.

Add shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a melty finish.

Include chopped bell peppers or carrots for added vegetables.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.Freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked cabbage?

Yes, pre-steamed cabbage can reduce the baking time slightly.

Does the rice need to be cooked first?

No, the rice cooks with the meat and sauce in the oven, soaking up flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

Is it spicy?

No, the dish is savory, not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes if desired.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the meat with lentils or plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth.

How do I prevent it from drying out?

Ensure it’s covered tightly while baking and don’t skimp on the sauce.

Conclusion

Cabbage Roll Casserole brings all the flavor of classic cabbage rolls in a simpler, fuss-free form. It’s an ideal recipe for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. Packed with nutrition and flavor, this dish is sure to become a staple comfort meal in your kitchen.