Cabbage roll casserole is a delightful and hearty dish that captures all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling each leaf. This casserole combines tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, rice, and a rich tomato sauce, all baked to perfection. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve something comforting and delicious. Let’s dive into this easy and flavorful recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.
- Prepare the Cabbage: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, cooked cabbage, uncooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Stir until well mixed.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. If using, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Conclusion
This cabbage roll casserole is a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. It’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a comforting meal, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
2. Can I freeze cabbage roll casserole?
Absolutely! After assembling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
3. What can I serve with cabbage roll casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a variety of sides such as a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
4. Can I use a different type of meat?
Certainly! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute can be used as a substitute for ground beef. Just make sure to cook and crumble the meat before adding it to the casserole.
5. How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add more heat, you can include red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce in the beef mixture. Using a spicy tomato sauce can also increase the heat level.
6. Can I add other ingredients to this casserole?
Yes, this recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add ingredients like diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious cabbage roll casserole with your friends and family! 🥬🍅🍚
Feel free to ask if you need more recipes or have any other questions!