Description

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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Ingredients

Scale

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

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Meat and Rice Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 6-8 minutes.
Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce.
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

Heat olive oil in another large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped cabbage, salt, and onion powder.
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

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

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

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

Step 5: Bake & Finish with Cheese

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

Notes

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.