Here’s a hearty and cozy Cabbage Casserole recipe that’s perfect for a budget-friendly weeknight dinner or potluck. It’s like a simplified version of stuffed cabbage rolls—no rolling, just layers of goodness baked in one dish.
🥬 Classic Cabbage Casserole
Ingredients (Serves 6–8):
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey/pork)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup cooked white rice (or use cauliflower rice for low carb)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
🔪 Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Cook Meat Mixture:
In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until meat is browned and onion is tender. Add garlic and cook another minute. Drain excess fat if needed. - Add Tomatoes & Seasoning:
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika. Simmer for 5 minutes, then stir in cooked rice. - Prepare Cabbage:
In a large pot or microwave-safe bowl, steam chopped cabbage with a bit of water for 5–7 minutes until just tender (not mushy). Drain well. - Assemble Casserole:
Layer half the cabbage in the bottom of the dish. Spread half the meat mixture over it. Repeat with remaining cabbage and meat. Top with shredded cheese. - Bake:
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly and cheese is golden.
📝 Tips:
- Want it creamier? Add ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese to the meat mixture.
- Add crushed red pepper or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Freezes well—assemble ahead, bake from frozen (add extra bake time).
Would you like a low-carb, vegetarian, or slow cooker version?