This Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that brings all the flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls into an easy-to-make layered casserole. Instead of rolling individual cabbage leaves, everything is baked together in a rich tomato sauce with tender cabbage, seasoned ground meat, and fluffy rice. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, as it reheats beautifully and delivers a satisfying, home-cooked taste.
Ingredients:
For the Casserole Base:
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional, for balancing acidity)
For the Topping (Optional):
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned.
- Add onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Layer the Casserole
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Spread half of the chopped cabbage evenly in the bottom of the dish.
- Layer half of the uncooked rice over the cabbage.
- Add half of the cooked meat mixture on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage, rice, and meat.
Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the casserole.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil, stir everything gently, and cover again.
- Bake for another 15 minutes, or until the rice and cabbage are tender.
Step 5: Add the Topping (Optional)
- Remove foil and sprinkle shredded cheese and chopped bacon over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 5 more minutes, until the cheese melts.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions & Tips
- Pair with crusty bread or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For extra depth, add a splash of red wine to the tomato sauce.
This Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is a delicious, fuss-free way to enjoy the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the extra work. Would you like variations or additional cooking tips? 🍽️🥬