This recipe provides instructions for making a hearty and comforting Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole, a deconstructed version of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls that offers all the delicious flavors with significantly less effort. This casserole features layers of seasoned ground beef and rice mixture, interspersed with tender chopped cabbage, and smothered in a rich tomato-based sauce. The ground beef is typically browned with onions and garlic, then mixed with cooked rice and seasonings like paprika, salt, and pepper. The chopped cabbage is often sautéed or blanched slightly to soften it before being layered in the casserole dish. A flavorful tomato sauce, which can be homemade or store-bought, often forms a crucial component, providing moisture and a tangy sweetness that complements the savory meat and mild cabbage. The casserole is then baked in the oven until the cabbage is tender, the meat is cooked through, and the flavors have melded together beautifully. Some variations include a topping of shredded cheese for added richness and a gooey, melted finish. Garnished with fresh parsley, this Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole offers a satisfying and family-friendly meal that captures the essence of classic stuffed cabbage rolls in an easier-to-prepare format. The image shows a serving of stuffed cabbage roll casserole on a white plate. The casserole has distinct layers of cooked ground beef, softened cabbage leaves, rice, and a tomato-based sauce. The top is covered with melted cheese and sprinkled with chopped fresh parsley.
The primary protein in this casserole is ground beef, typically browned and seasoned to provide a savory and hearty base.
Chopped cabbage takes the place of whole cabbage leaves used in traditional rolls. It is often sautéed or blanched to soften it and make it more palatable in the casserole format.
Cooked rice is mixed with the ground beef, adding bulk and a slightly chewy texture to the meat layer. White rice is commonly used, but other types like brown rice or even quinoa could be substituted.
A tomato-based sauce is crucial for flavor and moisture. This can be a simple sauce made from tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings, or a store-bought marinara or tomato soup base can be used for convenience.
Onions and garlic are typically sautéed with the ground beef, adding aromatic depth to the meat mixture.
Seasonings such as paprika (often sweet or smoked), salt, and black pepper are used to enhance the flavor of the ground beef and the overall casserole. Some recipes may also include dried herbs like oregano or thyme.
While not listed in the initial ingredients, the image clearly shows a layer of melted cheese on top of the casserole, suggesting that shredded cheese (such as mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend) is often used as a topping for added richness and a gooey finish.
Fresh parsley is commonly used as a garnish, adding a touch of freshness and visual appeal to the finished dish.
The preparation involves browning the ground beef with onions and garlic, mixing it with cooked rice and seasonings. The chopped cabbage is often softened separately. Then, the meat mixture and cabbage are layered in a casserole dish with the tomato sauce poured over and between the layers. Finally, the casserole is baked in the oven until heated through and the cabbage is tender. Cheese is often sprinkled on top during the last few minutes of baking.
Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is best served warm, allowing the flavors to meld together and the cheese (if used) to be melted and gooey. It is a complete meal on its own but can be accompanied by a side salad or crusty bread.
The texture of Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is a comforting combination of tender cabbage, savory ground beef and rice, and a rich, slightly saucy consistency. The melted cheese topping adds a gooey layer.
The flavor profile is a harmonious blend of savory ground beef with aromatic onions and garlic, the mild sweetness of cabbage, the subtle starchiness of rice, and the tangy sweetness of the tomato-based sauce, often enhanced by the warm notes of paprika and the freshness of parsley.
Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is a deconstructed version of stuffed cabbage rolls, featuring layers of seasoned ground beef and rice, chopped cabbage, and tomato sauce, baked until tender and often topped with cheese.
The preparation involves browning ground beef with aromatics, mixing with rice and seasonings, layering with softened cabbage in a casserole dish, covering with tomato sauce, baking until tender, and optionally topping with cheese.
Ingredients (Based on Image and Common Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipes):
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 3 ½ pounds chopped cabbage (about 1 large head)
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
- 2 cups water or beef broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment:
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Large casserole dish (9×13 inch or similar)
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Stirring spoon
Instructions:
- Cook the Rice: Cook the white rice according to package directions. Set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain off any excess grease.
- Season the Beef Mixture: Stir in the cooked rice, paprika, salt, pepper, and oregano (if using) into the ground beef mixture. Mix well and set aside.
- Prepare the Cabbage: While the beef is browning, prepare the cabbage. You can either sauté it or blanch it.
- Sautéed Cabbage: In a separate large skillet, heat a little more olive oil if needed. Add the chopped cabbage and sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is softened but still has some texture, about 10-15 minutes.
- Blanched Cabbage: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for 3-5 minutes until slightly softened. Drain well.
- Prepare the Tomato Sauce: In a bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and water or beef broth. Season with a little salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a pinch of sugar if you prefer a slightly sweeter sauce.
- Layer the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13 inch casserole dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom.
- Assemble Layers: Layer about half of the chopped cabbage over the sauce. Then, spread half of the ground beef and rice mixture over the cabbage. Pour about one-third of the remaining tomato sauce over the meat mixture.
- Repeat Layers: Add the remaining chopped cabbage, followed by the remaining ground beef and rice mixture. Pour the rest of the tomato sauce evenly over the top.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
- Add Cheese (Optional): Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm.
Tips and Variations:
- Cabbage Preparation: You can adjust the tenderness of the cabbage by varying the sautéing or blanching time. Some people prefer it more crisp-tender, while others like it very soft.
- Meat Variations: Ground turkey or a mixture of ground beef and pork can be used instead of all ground beef.
- Rice Variations: Brown rice can be used for a nuttier flavor and chewier texture, but it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure it is fully cooked before adding it to the meat mixture.
- Sauce Variations: You can add other vegetables like diced bell peppers or carrots to the tomato sauce for more flavor and nutrients. A bay leaf added to the sauce while simmering can also enhance its depth.
- Sweetness: Some people like to add a touch of sweetness to the sauce with a teaspoon of sugar or a drizzle of molasses.
- Make Ahead: The casserole can be assembled ahead of time, covered, and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Add about 15-20 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Freezing: Leftovers can be frozen in individual portions for a quick and easy meal later. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole!