Cabbage Roll Casserole

Looking for a cozy, satisfying dish that brings the comfort of classic cabbage rolls without the extra work? This Cabbage Roll Casserole gives you all the same delicious flavors in a much easier, layered format. It’s hearty, healthy, and perfect for family dinners or meal prepping ahead of a busy week.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No Rolling Needed – Skip the time-consuming step and enjoy a layered casserole instead.
Wholesome & Filling – Packed with beef, rice, cabbage, and a savory tomato sauce.
Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients you probably already have.
Perfect for Make-Ahead Meals – Tastes even better the next day.
Freezer-Friendly – Store extras for a future no-fuss dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meat & Rice Mixture:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• ½ cup beef broth

For the Cabbage Layer:

• 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces (about 6 cups)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp onion powder

For the Tomato Sauce Topping:

• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp sugar
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ cup beef broth

For the Cheese Topping (Optional):

• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Medium saucepan
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Foil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Meat and Rice Mixture

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 6-8 minutes.
2. Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
3. Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Add cooked rice, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth. Mix until everything is combined and heated through. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Cook the Cabbage

1. Heat olive oil in another large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped cabbage, salt, and onion powder.
3. Cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring often, until the cabbage is softened and slightly golden. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce Topping

1. In a saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, smoked paprika, and beef broth.
2. Simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Spread half of the cooked cabbage on the bottom of the dish.
4. Layer all of the meat and rice mixture over the cabbage.
5. Top with the remaining cabbage.
6. Pour the tomato sauce topping evenly over the final cabbage layer.
7. Cover the dish tightly with foil.

Step 5: Bake & Finish with Cheese

1. Bake the covered casserole for 40 minutes.
2. Remove foil and sprinkle the mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
3. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Success
Use Cooked Rice – Cold, leftover rice works great and holds its texture.
Chop Cabbage Evenly – Bite-sized pieces cook uniformly and layer better.
Make it Ahead – Assemble up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Customize the Meat – Ground turkey or chicken also works well.
Add Veggies – Try adding chopped bell peppers or shredded carrots for more color and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions
Buttered Rolls – Soak up the extra sauce with warm bread.
Mixed Greens Salad – A fresh side balances the hearty casserole.
Roasted Potatoes – For an ultra-comforting dinner combo.
Apple Slaw – The sweet crunch complements the savory flavors.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap individual portions or the whole dish tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating:
Oven: Reheat covered at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual servings in 60-second intervals until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use uncooked rice in this casserole?
No, you’ll want to use fully cooked rice so it doesn’t absorb too much liquid while baking.

2. What’s the best type of cabbage for this dish?
Green cabbage is traditional, but savoy cabbage or even napa cabbage can work too.

3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Just skip the cheese topping or use your favorite dairy-free alternative.

4. Does this freeze well?
Absolutely. It freezes beautifully and makes for a great make-ahead freezer meal.

5. Can I add more spice?
Yes, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the meat mixture adds some heat.

Final Thoughts
This Cabbage Roll Casserole is everything you want in a comforting, home-cooked meal—rich tomato flavor, tender cabbage, hearty meat, and gooey cheese in every bite. It’s simple to prepare, feeds a crowd, and is perfect for both weeknights and weekends.

Try it once, and it’ll become a staple in your dinner rotation. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share your delicious creation with friends and family.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 400 | Protein: 24g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 22g | Fiber: 5g | Sodium: 610mg

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