Savory Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole: A Hearty and Easy Comfort Meal

Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole: A Hearty and Flavorful One-Dish Meal

When the chill of the season sets in, nothing warms the soul quite like a comforting casserole. A Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is an excellent choice for those seeking a satisfying dish that combines the classic flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in an easy-to-make format. This delightful casserole features tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and a rich tomato sauce, all baked together to create a cozy meal perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

One of the best aspects of the Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is its convenience. It provides an all-in-one meal that captures the beloved taste and texture of rolled cabbage without the hassle of individual preparation. The chopped cabbage becomes delectably tender, the ground beef infuses the dish with savory richness, and the rice absorbs the flavors of the tomato and beef broth. This casserole not only simplifies the cooking process but also makes cleanup a breeze, and the flavors meld beautifully, making leftovers even more enjoyable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this hearty casserole, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds of ground beef (lean or 80/20 blend)
• 3 ½ pounds of chopped green cabbage (cored and cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1 (29-ounce) can of tomato sauce
• 1 cup of chopped onion (yellow or white)
• 1 cup of uncooked white rice (long-grain or medium-grain)
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 2 (14-ounce) cans of low-sodium beef broth

Ingredient Substitutions and Notes

• Ground Beef: If desired, you can mix ground beef with ground pork or opt for ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Cabbage: Green cabbage is traditional, but feel free to use other varieties if you prefer.
• Tomato Sauce: A plain tomato sauce serves as the base, and you may enhance the flavor with a tablespoon or two of tomato paste.
• Onion: Adds essential flavor and aroma to the dish.
• Uncooked Rice: It’s crucial not to pre-cook the rice; it will absorb the liquid as the casserole bakes.
• Beef Broth: Using low-sodium broth allows you to manage the dish’s saltiness.
• Seasoning: Enhance flavor with a pinch of black pepper, dried parsley, garlic powder, or a touch of brown sugar for sweetness.

Step-by-Step Directions

Making this casserole is straightforward, primarily involving mixing and baking in a single dish.

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Combine All Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or directly in a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the browned beef with chopped cabbage, tomato sauce, chopped onion, uncooked rice, salt, and beef broth.
4. Mix Thoroughly: Stir until all ingredients are well combined, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: If mixed in a bowl, pour the mixture into the baking dish and spread it out evenly.
6. Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
7. Uncover & Continue Baking: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-30 minutes, until the cabbage is tender, the rice is cooked, and the casserole is bubbly. Optionally, sprinkle black pepper or fresh parsley on top.
8. Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Tips for Success

• Chop Cabbage Finely: Cutting the cabbage into manageable pieces promotes even cooking.
• Drain Beef Well: Eliminating excess fat keeps the casserole from becoming greasy.
• Don’t Pre-Cook Rice: The uncooked rice absorbs flavors during baking.
• Cover Tightly: Covering the dish initially creates a steamy environment for even cooking.
• Taste and Adjust: After baking, taste the casserole and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serving Suggestions

This Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is a fulfilling meal on its own, but you can enhance the experience with a few accompaniments:

• Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up the savory sauce.
• Sour Cream: A classic addition that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Light Green Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Leftovers from this casserole are often even more flavorful the next day. Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover loosely with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions. This casserole also freezes well for up to 3 months, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

The Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is a delightful embodiment of homestyle cooking, combining rich flavors and comfort in one dish. It’s ideal for family dinners and sure to bring joy to the dinner table. Try this recipe, and relish the cozy experience it brings! What’s your favorite casserole to prepare for family gatherings?