If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty meal that hits all the right notes, this Stuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. Combining tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and the richness of tomato sauce with the perfect touch of melty mozzarella, it offers all the flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling each leaf. It’s a cozy, delicious casserole that brings warmth to the table and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Trust me, once you try this gorgeous dish, it’ll become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Stuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe relies on simple yet essential ingredients, each thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and beautiful color. From the fragrant garlic and onions to the tender cabbage and hearty beef, everything works together like a cozy culinary hug.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp, divided): Helps sauté the onions and cabbage for rich flavor and moisture.
- Medium onion (1, diced): Adds sweetness and depth when caramelized gently.
- Salt (2 tsp, divided): Enhances all the natural flavors throughout the dish.
- Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Offers a subtle spicy warmth.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Delivers aromatic intensity that brings the savory notes alive.
- Lean ground beef (1 lb): Provides hearty protein and richness.
- Tomato paste (2 tsp): Concentrates the tomato flavor and adds umami depth.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp): Gives a tangy, savory boost that brightens the beef mixture.
- Paprika (1 tsp): Adds warm color and a smoky hint.
- Tomato puree (1 can, 15 oz): Forms the luscious base of the sauce.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 15 oz): Bring lovely texture and sweetness to the sauce.
- Cooked white rice (1 1/2 cups): Balances the meat and adds comforting heartiness.
- Green cabbage (1/2 large or 1 small, cored and chopped): Offers a tender yet slightly crisp vegetable layer.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully on top for a golden, bubbly finish.
How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until soft and fragrant. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and black pepper to bring out the natural sweetness of the onions. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute — this base sets a wonderful, savory stage for the beef.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Continue until the beef is nicely browned with no pink remaining. This is where the dish gains its hearty, rich character. Browning properly is key — it builds deep flavor that’s absolutely essential for the casserole’s deliciousness.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika, mixing well to combine. Then add the tomato puree and diced tomatoes, bringing the whole mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully. The aroma alone will have you eagerly awaiting the next step.
Step 4: Mix in the Rice
Once the sauce has thickened, fold in the cooked white rice. The rice absorbs those rich tomato and beef juices, adding a tender texture that makes every bite satisfying. Set this hearty mixture aside while you prepare the cabbage.
Step 5: Cook the Cabbage
In a separate pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until it softens but still holds a bit of bite. Season with the last teaspoon of salt. This step unlocks the sweetness of the cabbage and keeps the texture from becoming mushy in the casserole.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish, then layer the casserole starting with one-third of the beef and rice mixture on the bottom. Add half of the cooked cabbage on top, then another layer of beef mixture, followed by the remaining cabbage, and finish with the rest of the beef mixture. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving so it sets perfectly.
How to Serve Stuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a dollop of sour cream adds a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole. These garnishes also bring a lovely pop of color that makes the dish feel extra inviting on the plate.
Side Dishes
This stuffed cabbage casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing salads or crusty bread to soak up the savory tomato sauce. Roasted root vegetables or a simple cucumber salad can also balance the hearty main dish with their lightness and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins or mini cast iron skillets straight from the oven. You can also add a sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan with the mozzarella for an extra layer of cheesy goodness. If entertaining, invite guests to top their own servings with fresh herbs or hot sauce for a little flavor customization.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, leftover Stuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen and become more harmonious after a day, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave portions covered slightly with a paper towel for quicker prep, though the oven keeps the cheese beautifully melty and the topping crisp.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative and still works well with the tomato sauce and seasoning, though it might be slightly less rich.
Is it necessary to precook the cabbage?
Yes, lightly cooking the cabbage makes it tender enough for the casserole without becoming mushy, ensuring perfect texture in the final dish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth if needed in the sauce to keep it hearty and flavorful.
What type of rice is best for this recipe?
White rice works best because it absorbs the sauce nicely without becoming too sticky, but you can experiment with brown rice if you prefer a nuttier texture and extra fiber.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time before baking?
Definitely! Assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to eat, just bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
Making this Stuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm, flavorful blanket of comfort food. It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough to serve guests with pride. The layers of tender cabbage, savory beef, and rich tomato sauce topped with bubbling cheese come together in such a satisfying way that I guarantee you’ll keep coming back for seconds. Give this recipe a try, and soon it might just become one of your own kitchen classics.
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Stuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Stuffed Cabbage Casserole offers a comforting twist on traditional stuffed cabbage rolls by layering a savory ground beef and tomato mixture with tender cabbage and melted mozzarella cheese. Baked to perfection, this hearty dish combines the rich flavors of paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato with fluffy rice for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 tsp salt, divided
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 tsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
- 1/2 large green cabbage (or 1 small), cored and chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Season with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper to build flavor.
- Add Garlic and Brown Beef: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute to release its aroma. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring frequently, until the meat is fully browned and no longer pink.
- Simmer Tomato Mixture: Mix in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, tomato puree, and diced tomatoes. Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing flavors to marry and the sauce to thicken.
- Combine with Rice: Stir the cooked white rice into the beef and tomato mixture until evenly incorporated. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Sauté Cabbage: In a separate pan, heat remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until softened but still slightly crisp. Season with the remaining 1 tsp salt.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Layer Ingredients: Grease a baking dish lightly with oil. Spread one-third of the beef mixture on the bottom, then layer half of the sautéed cabbage over it. Repeat the layering with another one-third of the beef mixture and the remaining cabbage. Finally, top with the last third of the beef mixture.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to cook through and meld the flavors.
- Add Cheese and Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes more until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes out of the oven before serving, allowing it to set and making it easier to slice and serve.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and add cooked lentils or mushrooms.
- If you prefer spicier dishes, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes with the paprika.
- Use freshly cooked rice rather than leftovers for best texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
