Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Cabbage Roll Casserole offers all the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the fuss of wrapping. Layered with seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, and melted cheese, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup minced onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 24 ounces marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 6 cups roughly chopped cabbage
• 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef and minced onion, cooking until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is softened.
3. Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, dill, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Add the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes with juice, and cooked rice. Stir until combined and cook until warmed through.
5. Step 5: In a large pot, melt the butter over high heat. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until it is just wilted and starting to brown.
6. Step 6: To assemble, layer half of the cooked cabbage at the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Top with half of the beef mixture, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese.
7. Step 7: Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage, beef mixture, and finish with the remaining cheese on top.
8. Step 8: Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
• Swap Colby Jack cheese with mozzarella or cheddar according to your preference.
• Cook the rice in beef or chicken broth for extra flavor.
• If you prefer a softer cabbage, cover the pot while cooking to steam it slightly.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. This casserole also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Adjust seasonings as needed for flavor.

Is it necessary to cook the rice beforehand?

Yes, the rice should be cooked before adding to the beef mixture to ensure it is tender and fully cooked in the casserole.