Stuffed Cabbage Casserole

All the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls—savory ground beef, tender cabbage, onions, tomatoes, and rice—come together in an easy, layered casserole. No rolling required! It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and perfect for a cozy family dinner.

🛒 Ingredients

• 1½ lb ground beef
• 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp brown sugar, optional
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, optional
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and onion. Cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking up the beef as it browns.
3. Stir in garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Stir well.
5. Add the uncooked rice and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the chopped cabbage and gently fold everything together. Cook for another 5 minutes, just until the cabbage begins to soften.
7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
8. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45–55 minutes, until the rice is tender and the cabbage is completely softened.
9. Remove the foil. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the top.
10. Bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden.
11. Let rest for 10 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

💡 Pro Tips

• Don’t skip the foil—it traps steam and helps the rice cook properly.
• For extra flavor, brown the beef until it develops a little caramelization.
• Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
• If you prefer a sweeter traditional cabbage-roll flavor, add the optional brown sugar to the tomato sauce.

📝 Description

Stuffed Cabbage Casserole gives you all the delicious comfort of classic stuffed cabbage rolls without the time-consuming rolling and stuffing. Tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and rich tomato sauce bake together into a warm, satisfying casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or Sunday dinner.

❓ Quick Q&A

Q: Can I use cooked rice?
Yes. If using cooked rice, reduce the broth and baking time. Add the cooked rice during assembly and bake until everything is hot and tender.

Q: Can I make this with ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lighter alternative.

Q: Can I freeze it?
Yes. Cool completely, portion into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

Serve with:

• Crusty garlic bread
• Simple green salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Fresh parsley