Description
This Cabbage Roll Casserole is a deconstructed version of classic cabbage rolls, featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, rice, cabbage, and cheese baked to perfection. A comforting and hearty dish that’s easy to make.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Casserole Layers:
- 1 medium green cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the dish: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the ground beef mixture: In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned. Add onion, garlic, and cook until softened.
- Prepare the sauce: Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, thyme, paprika, oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Cook the cabbage: Boil salted water and cook cabbage until tender, then drain.
- Layer the casserole: In the baking dish, layer cabbage, meat sauce, and rice. Repeat layers and top with cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then bake uncovered for 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let cool before serving.
Notes
- For a lower-carb option, use cauliflower rice instead of white rice.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated overnight or frozen for up to 2 months.
