Cabbage Roll Casserole 

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

1. Start by chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. You can also shred it for a finer texture if you prefer.
2. Blanch the cabbage in boiling water for about 3-5 minutes, or until it’s slightly tender. Drain well and set aside. Alternatively, you can skip this step if you prefer the cabbage to retain more texture during baking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Add the ground beef (or your choice of protein) to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked through.
3. Drain any excess fat from the beef, then stir in the Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and the beef mixture. Stir well to combine.
2. Add in the prepared cabbage, mixing it evenly with the beef, rice, and sauce. If you like a bit of sweetness in your casserole, you can also stir in the brown sugar at this point.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Transfer the cabbage, beef, and rice mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly so that everything cooks uniformly.
3. (Optional) Top the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese for a melty, gooey topping. This step is perfect if you like cheesy dishes!

Step 5: Bake the Cabbage Roll Casserole

1. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
2. If you topped the casserole with cheese, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to melt and become golden brown.
3. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the Cabbage Roll Casserole warm, garnished with fresh herbs or extra cheese, if desired. Pair it with a simple salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect Cabbage Roll Casserole

• Customize the Meat: While ground beef is traditional, you can swap it for ground turkey, pork, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Make It Vegetarian: For a meat-free version, use cooked lentils or tofu instead of ground meat. You can also load it up with more vegetables for a satisfying, veggie-packed casserole.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the casserole a little kick. Alternatively, add some chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra layer of flavor.
• Use Leftover Rice: This is a great recipe for using up leftover rice. If you don’t have any cooked rice on hand, simply cook a cup of rice ahead of time or use instant rice.
• Freezing Instructions: Cabbage roll casserole is freezer-friendly! You can make it ahead of time and freeze it before baking. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.

Why You’ll Love Cabbage Roll Casserole

Cabbage Roll Casserole offers all the comfort and flavor of classic cabbage rolls but with much less effort. The combination of tender cabbage, seasoned meat, rice, and rich tomato sauce is comforting, filling, and downright delicious. It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or meal prepping for the week.

Plus, this casserole is incredibly versatile. You can customize it to your taste preferences, whether you like it cheesier, spicier, or with a unique twist on the protein. The whole family will love this satisfying meal, and it’s guaranteed to warm you up on a chilly evening.

Final Thoughts

Cabbage Roll Casserole is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for when you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal without the time-consuming process of rolling individual cabbage rolls. The savory combination of beef, rice, and cabbage topped with a rich tomato sauce and optional melted cheese is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, customizable, and delicious!

So, next time you’re in the mood for a cozy meal, try making this Cabbage Roll Casserole. It’s an all-in-one dish that will bring a smile to everyone’s face!