If you love the comforting taste of traditional cabbage rolls but want a quicker, easier way to enjoy those classic flavors, this Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine all the rich, savory goodness of stuffed cabbage without the fuss of rolling each bite. This hearty baked casserole brings together tender ground beef, fragrant cabbage, tangy tomatoes, and tender rice into one soul-satisfying dish that feels like a warm, delicious hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, combining to create a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color that makes this dish both delicious and visually appealing.
- 1 lb ground beef: The main protein that gives the casserole its hearty, meaty foundation.
- 1 small head cabbage, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and tender crunch as it bakes.
- 1 onion, diced: Provides a savory base flavor that complements the beef perfectly.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Thickens the mixture and adds a rich, tangy tomato flavor.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: Offers bursts of freshness and texture contrasts in the casserole.
- ½ cup uncooked rice: Absorbs all the flavors while making the dish filling and comforting.
- 1 tsp paprika, salt, pepper: Essential spices that bring warmth, balance saltiness, and enhance the overall flavor.
How to Make Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is soft and translucent. This step builds the flavorful foundation by caramelizing the beef’s natural juices and onions’ sweetness.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes, Tomato Sauce, Rice, and Seasonings
Once the beef and onions look perfectly browned, stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, uncooked rice, and the paprika, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients now allows the rice to begin soaking up those rich tomato flavors from the get-go.
Step 3: Stir in Chopped Cabbage
Next, fold in the chopped cabbage. It might seem like a lot at first, but the cabbage cooks down and mixes beautifully with the meaty tomato mixture. This is what transforms the dish into a true cabbage roll casserole without any rolling required.
Step 4: Bake Until Tender
Transfer everything into a baking dish and cover it tightly with foil. Pop it in the oven at 375 °F and bake for 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the flavors have melded together into a luscious, comforting casserole. The result is a one-pot meal that is both fuss-free and packed with homestyle flavor.
How to Serve Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe to the next level, consider topping it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. These simple garnishes add coolness and brightness, perfectly balancing the rich, tender casserole beneath.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides like a green salad or steamed green beans. The freshness of the veggies cuts through the hearty meat and rice, rounding out the meal beautifully without overpowering the casserole’s flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive spin, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or scoop it into small bread bowls for a fun and portable meal. You could even layer the casserole with a little shredded cheese on top before baking for a golden, bubbly finish that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a fantastic next-day meal option.
Freezing
To freeze, let the casserole cool completely. Transfer portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or oven at 350 °F until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth before reheating helps keep the rice tender and prevents the casserole from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works wonderfully in this Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe. It will give the dish a lighter taste while still maintaining that hearty feel.
Do I have to use uncooked rice?
Uncooked rice is best for this recipe because it absorbs the juices as it bakes, resulting in perfectly tender grains. Using pre-cooked rice could make the casserole too mushy or dry.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this casserole is naturally gluten-free as long as you double-check your tomato sauce and diced tomatoes for any hidden gluten additives. It’s a great option for gluten-sensitive diners.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to sneak in some shredded carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms when adding the cabbage. They’ll add extra flavor and nutrients without disrupting the classic taste.
What’s the best way to get a tangy finish?
Adding a dash of vinegar to the casserole before baking brightens up the whole dish with a subtle tang that perfectly complements the rich beef and cabbage flavors.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe. It’s the perfect way to enjoy all the warm, comforting flavors of cabbage rolls without all the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorite go-tos. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every savory bite!
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Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
All the flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls without the rolling! This hearty one-pot casserole combines ground beef, cabbage, rice, and tomato sauce for a comforting and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small head cabbage, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
Tomato and Rice
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- ½ cup uncooked rice
Seasonings
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the beef and onion: In a large pot or skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the tomato base and rice: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juices), uncooked rice, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Incorporate the cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the pot, stirring to evenly combine it with the meat and tomato mixture.
- Transfer and bake: Pour the entire mixture into a baking dish and cover tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cabbage is cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, stir gently to combine, and serve warm. For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of vinegar just before serving.
Notes
- Add a dash of vinegar for a tangy finish.
- Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.
- To make this gluten-free, verify that the tomato products do not contain any gluten additives.
- Brown the meat thoroughly to enhance flavor and reduce grease.
- Ensure the baking dish is well covered to keep moisture in during baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main / Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Eastern European / American
