If you love traditional cabbage rolls but do not have the time or patience to roll and stuff each leaf individually, this Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is the perfect solution. It delivers all the comforting flavors of the classic dish in a simplified, layered format that is both practical and satisfying. I remember making traditional cabbage rolls for the first time and realizing how time-consuming the process could be. This casserole version keeps the hearty beef, tender cabbage, and rich tomato sauce while eliminating the extra steps. The result is a cozy, family-friendly dinner that feels nostalgic yet effortless. It is ideal for weeknight meals, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. With its savory layers and balanced flavors, this casserole brings warmth and comfort to the table without compromising authenticity. If you enjoy wholesome, hearty dishes, this recipe deserves a place in your regular rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole captures the authentic flavor of traditional cabbage rolls without the complicated rolling process. It is hearty, filling, and perfect for family dinners. The layered method saves time while maintaining the same savory taste and tender texture. It reheats beautifully, making it excellent for leftovers or meal prep. The ingredients are simple and budget-friendly, yet the final dish feels rich and comforting.
Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole: Classic Comfort Made Easy
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is a comforting, layered dish that delivers all the classic flavors of traditional cabbage rolls—tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, rice, and rich tomato sauce—without the hassle of rolling.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onion until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, brown sugar, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Spread half of the chopped cabbage evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Layer half of the uncooked rice over the cabbage, then spoon half of the beef mixture on top.
- Repeat layers with remaining cabbage, rice, and beef mixture.
- Pour beef broth evenly over the casserole. Cover tightly with foil.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until rice is tender and cabbage is soft.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes if needed to reduce excess liquid.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
- For a low-carb version, replace rice with cauliflower rice and reduce baking time slightly.
- This dish freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Green cabbage
Chopped cabbage forms the base of this casserole. As it bakes, it softens and absorbs the flavorful tomato sauce, creating a tender texture similar to traditional cabbage rolls.
Ground beef
Ground beef provides a hearty and savory foundation. I prefer using lean ground beef to reduce excess grease while maintaining full flavor.
Cooked white rice
Rice adds structure and helps bind the meat mixture together. It also balances the acidity of the tomato sauce.
Onion
Finely diced onion enhances the depth of flavor and adds subtle sweetness when sautéed with the beef.
Garlic
Garlic contributes aromatic richness and complements the tomato base beautifully.
Crushed tomatoes
Crushed tomatoes create the primary sauce component, delivering acidity and depth.
Tomato sauce
Tomato sauce smooths out the texture and enhances the richness of the casserole.
Beef broth
A small amount of broth adds moisture and intensifies the savory profile of the dish.
Paprika
Paprika provides gentle warmth and subtle smokiness.
Dried thyme
Thyme adds an earthy note that pairs well with cabbage and beef.
Salt and black pepper
These essential seasonings bring all the flavors together and enhance the overall taste.
Fresh parsley (optional)
Chopped parsley adds freshness and color when sprinkled on top before serving.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a large baking dish. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for about 5 minutes, just until slightly tender. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Add the cooked rice, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until fully combined and allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes.
Layer half of the cabbage in the prepared baking dish. Spread half of the meat mixture evenly over the cabbage. Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage and meat mixture.
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the flavors have melded together. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 6 to 8 people.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. For reheating larger portions, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven for about 20 minutes. This casserole also freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
There are many ways to personalize this Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole. For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for the beef. I once prepared this version with ground turkey and added a pinch of smoked paprika, and the result was equally satisfying.
If you prefer a lower-carb alternative, replace the white rice with cauliflower rice. The texture remains hearty while reducing carbohydrate content.
For added richness, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking. The melted cheese creates a comforting finish.
You can also experiment with brown rice or wild rice for a nuttier flavor. Adding a small amount of Worcestershire sauce enhances depth and savory complexity.
For a slightly sweeter profile, mix a tablespoon of brown sugar into the tomato sauce. If you enjoy a bit of heat, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Vegetarian adaptations can be made by replacing the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground alternative. The tomato and cabbage combination remains delicious and satisfying.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 390 |
| Protein (g) | 23 |
| Carbs (g) | 28 |
| Fat (g) | 20 |
| Saturated Fat (g) | 8 |
| Fiber (g) | 4 |
| Sugar (g) | 8 |
| Sodium (mg) | 620 |
Values are estimates and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Pre-Cook the Cabbage
Briefly boiling the cabbage ensures it becomes tender without releasing excess moisture during baking.
Drain the Beef Thoroughly
Removing extra grease keeps the casserole balanced and prevents a heavy texture.
Allow Resting Time
Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes helps the layers set for cleaner slices.
Season in Layers
Taste and adjust seasoning at each step to enhance depth of flavor.
Use Quality Tomatoes
High-quality canned tomatoes significantly improve the overall taste of the dish.
FAQs
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole?
Yes, it freezes well either before or after baking. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Do I have to cook the cabbage first?
Lightly cooking the cabbage helps achieve a tender texture and reduces excess liquid.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, fully cooked brown rice works well and adds a slightly nutty flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, it is naturally gluten-free. Always check labels to confirm.
What side dishes pair well with this casserole?
A simple green salad or crusty bread complements the rich flavors perfectly.
Conclusion
Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole offers all the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in a convenient, layered format. It is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this dish proves that classic comfort food does not have to be complicated.
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