Cabbage Roll Casserole
Introduction
Cabbage Roll Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that brings the traditional flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls into an easy-to-make casserole. This recipe combines layers of tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and rice all baked together with a rich tomato sauce. It’s satisfying, delicious, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it is simple to prepare and does not require rolling individual cabbage leaves, making it much quicker than traditional cabbage rolls. Second, it’s a one-pan meal, which means there’s less cleanup after dinner. Finally, the flavors meld beautifully during baking, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
How to Make Cabbage Roll Casserole
Making Cabbage Roll Casserole is straightforward and enjoyable. Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup white rice
- 4 cups cabbage, chopped
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 cup water
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the diced onion over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Drain the excess fat and stir in the tomato sauce, water, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish, layer the chopped cabbage, followed by the rice and the meat mixture.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the rice is cooked through. Serve hot.
How to Serve Cabbage Roll Casserole
Serve Cabbage Roll Casserole hot from the oven. You can top it with additional tomato sauce, shredded cheese, or fresh herbs for extra flavor. It pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
How to Store Cabbage Roll Casserole
To store leftover Cabbage Roll Casserole, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to cover it well before placing it in the freezer, where it will last for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Cabbage Roll Casserole
- Use cooked rice: If you have leftover rice from another meal, it can save time and make this dish even quicker to prepare.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to suit your taste. Italian seasoning or chili flakes can add a nice touch.
- Add veggies: You can include other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a boost of nutrition and flavor.
Variation
For a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. You can also use quinoa instead of rice for a healthier alternative.
FAQs
1. Can I make Cabbage Roll Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole and store it in the fridge before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
2. Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be excellent substitutes for ground beef in this recipe.
3. What can I serve with Cabbage Roll Casserole?
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs nicely with a side salad or some garlic bread if you want to add something extra.
