If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, then my easy cabbage roll casserole recipe is just what you need! This dish brings all the delightful flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the fuss—trust me, it’s a game changer! The combination of ground beef, tender cabbage, and savory tomatoes creates a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, and the best part? Leftovers are just as delicious! Let’s dive into this delightful casserole that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients for Easy Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped – This is the star of the dish, providing that signature crunch and flavor.
- 1 pound ground beef – I like to use lean ground beef for a healthier twist, but feel free to choose your favorite type!
- 1 onion, diced – Adds a lovely sweetness and depth to the casserole.
- 2 cups cooked rice – This helps to bulk up the dish and make it hearty. Leftover rice works great here!
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes – The tomatoes bring a juicy, tangy flavor that ties everything together.
- 2 cups tomato sauce – This creates a rich base for the casserole, making it extra comforting.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Because who doesn’t love a hint of garlic in their comfort food?
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a warm, smoky flavor that enhances the overall dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season! It really brings out the flavors of all the ingredients.
How to Prepare Easy Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your casserole cooks evenly and reaches that perfect bubbly goodness. So, make sure to set it before you start cooking!
Cook the Beef and Onion
In a large skillet, add your ground beef and diced onion over medium heat. Cook them together, breaking up the meat as it browns. This step isn’t just about cooking the meat; it’s where all those wonderful flavors start to develop! You want the beef to be nicely browned and the onions soft and translucent—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Yum!
Add Cabbage and Other Ingredients
Once your beef and onion are sizzling beautifully, it’s time to add in the chopped cabbage. Stir it in and let it cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, just until it starts to soften. Then, mix in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to combine everything, and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to meld those flavors together. It should smell incredible by now!
Transfer to Baking Dish
Now, carefully transfer this delicious mixture into a baking dish. I like to use a 9×13 inch dish, but whatever you have will do! Make sure to spread it out evenly. And here’s a little tip: cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil before it goes into the oven. This helps trap the steam, making the cabbage tender and the flavors even more delightful.
Baking Instructions
Pop your covered casserole into the preheated oven and bake it for 45 minutes. This initial baking time allows all those ingredients to get cozy and flavorful together. After that, remove the foil and bake it uncovered for an additional 15 minutes. This will give your casserole a lovely, slightly crispy top that you just can’t resist. Trust me, it’s going to be worth the wait!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time: This easy cabbage roll casserole recipe comes together in no time, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.
- Comforting flavors: With a delicious blend of savory beef, tender cabbage, and rich tomato sauce, every bite will wrap you in warmth and nostalgia.
- Healthy ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is not only satisfying but also a nutritious choice for your family.
- Versatile and adaptable: Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or substitute the beef for turkey or even veggies for a delightful meatless option!
Tips for Success with Easy Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
Let me share some of my top tips to ensure your easy cabbage roll casserole turns out absolutely perfect every time!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cabbage and quality ground beef make a big difference in flavor. If you can, choose organic or locally sourced ingredients for the best taste!
- Customize Your Spices: Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices! A pinch of Italian seasoning or some red pepper flakes can add a whole new dimension of flavor to your casserole.
- Substitutions Galore: If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken work wonderfully in place of beef. You can even swap in lentils or quinoa for a vegetarian twist!
- Watch the Cooking Times: Everyone’s oven is a little different. Keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes, and adjust the time as needed to get that perfect bubbly, golden top!
- Don’t Skip the Foil: Covering your dish with foil traps moisture and helps the cabbage soften beautifully. Just remember to remove it for that last 15 minutes to get that lovely crust!
- Leftovers are Your Friend: This casserole tastes even better the next day! Store any leftovers in an airtight container and enjoy them for lunch or dinner later on.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this cozy, delicious dish. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
It’s important to note that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so the information provided here is an estimate and not an exact calculation. Typically, you can expect this easy cabbage roll casserole recipe to include around 350 calories per serving, along with a balance of fat, protein, and carbohydrates. However, keep in mind that factors like using different types of meat, adding extra vegetables, or changing portion sizes can all affect these numbers. Always feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs and preferences while enjoying this delicious dish!
FAQ Section
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, you can pop it straight into the oven. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will go in cold!
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken are fantastic substitutes that keep the dish lean. For a vegetarian version, you can use lentils, quinoa, or even a medley of chopped mushrooms and vegetables. The flavors will still be delightful!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You might find the flavors even more pronounced the next day—yum!
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can definitely freeze this easy cabbage roll casserole! Just let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It should stay good in the freezer for about 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.
Serving Suggestions for Easy Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
This easy cabbage roll casserole is a star on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal to a whole new level! Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions that complement the comforting flavors of the casserole:
- Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce from the casserole. Trust me, you’ll want to have some on the side!
- Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and balances the heartiness of the casserole. I love tossing in some cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta for extra flavor.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm casserole. It’s especially great if you want that extra crunch and a bit of zing!
- Mashed Potatoes: If you’re in the mood for something extra comforting, creamy mashed potatoes make a fantastic side. They blend so well with the flavors, and who doesn’t love a good potato dish?
- Steamed Vegetables: Keep it light and healthy by serving some steamed broccoli or green beans. They add color to your plate and are a great way to boost those veggies!
Feel free to mix and match based on your family’s preferences. No matter what you choose to serve alongside, you’re in for a cozy, satisfying meal that everyone will love!
Imprimer
Easy Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe: 5 Comforting Secrets
- Temps Total: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Rendement: 6 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Faible En Calories
Description
A simple and delicious cabbage roll casserole that combines the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in an easy-to-make dish.
Ingrédients
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and onion until browned.
- Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and cook until it starts to soften.
- Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Notes
- Feel free to add your favorite spices.
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated.
- Temps De Préparation: 20 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 1 hour
- Catégorie: Main Dish
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sucre: 5g
- De Sodium: 600mg
- La graisse: 15g
- Graisses Saturées: 5g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 9g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 35g
- La fibre: 4g
- La protéine: 20g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 50mg
Mots-clés: easy cabbage roll casserole recipe
