Easy Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe: All the Comfort, None of the Hassle

With This Recipe, You Get To Enjoy The Comforting Flavors of Cabbage Rolls The Easy Way

Growing up in a Ukrainian household, cabbage rolls were a staple at special gatherings and holiday feasts. My mother made them frequently, and she passed down the tradition to me. Preparing the cabbage, rolling the leaves, and assembling each piece was a labor of love, but it took time—time that I often don’t have on a busy weeknight. That’s why this easy cabbage roll casserole is such a lifesaver. It has all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but without the time-consuming rolling process. We won’t call it “lazy” as many recipes are labeled with this casserole, because all food prep takes effort, but this dish certainly makes things easier. The addition of cheese might not be typical of traditional Ukrainian recipes, but it adds a delicious layer of richness and extra protein to the meal. Whether you’re making this for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it’s a comforting, hearty dish that’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Did You Know?

This Cabbage Roll Casserole offers all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the hassle of rolling each leaf. This gluten-free casserole features layers of ground beef, rice, and a savory tomato sauce with chopped cabbage and cheese. Cabbage is a great source of vitamins C and K, while ground beef provides protein and iron. The melted cheese on top creates a golden, bubbly crust that adds a delicious texture to the dish. Visually, the casserole is appealing with its rich tomato sauce and cheesy topping. Each bite offers a blend of savory, cheesy, and hearty flavors, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.

Recipe:
Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup cooked rice
1 small head of cabbage, chopped
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat and Vegetables:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Personal Tip: When browning the ground beef, use a wooden spoon to break it up into small, even pieces. This ensures a consistent texture throughout the casserole.

Assemble the Casserole:
In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer half of the chopped cabbage. Spread half of the meat and tomato mixture over the cabbage. Add half of the cooked rice over the meat layer. Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage, meat mixture, and rice. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Personal Tip: Press down gently on each layer with a spatula to help the casserole hold its shape and cook evenly.

Bake the Casserole:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Personal Tip: To prevent the cheese from sticking to the foil, spray the foil lightly with non-stick cooking spray before covering the casserole.

Serve:
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Personal Tip: Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to settle and make it easier to cut and serve neat portions.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 400; Fat: 20g; Saturated Fat: 8g; Carbohydrates: 30g; Fiber: 5g; Sugars: 8g; Protein: 25g

Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money

1. Bulk Buying: Purchase ground beef, rice, and cheese in bulk. These ingredients are versatile and can be used in various recipes, reducing the cost per unit and saving you money in the long run. Store ground beef in the freezer in portioned bags for easy access.
2. Homemade Tomato Sauce: If store-bought tomato sauce is expensive or contains unwanted additives, consider making your own using fresh tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs. This can be more cost-effective and allows you to control the flavor and ingredients. Make a large batch and freeze in portions for future use.
3. Reusable Baking Tools: Invest in reusable baking dishes and silicone mats. These tools are not only environmentally friendly but also save money over time compared to disposable options. They also make cleanup easier and more efficient.
4. Energy Efficiency: Cook large batches of rice and store it in the refrigerator for later use. This saves on energy costs and makes meal prep more efficient. You can use the cooked rice in various dishes throughout the week, including salads, stir-fries, and casseroles.
5. Smart Storage: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for several days, providing a convenient and delicious meal throughout the week. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
6. Ingredient Substitutions: If certain ingredients are unavailable or too expensive, consider substituting them with more affordable alternatives. For example, use ground turkey instead of beef, or substitute the mozzarella with cheddar or another cheese.
7. Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with adding different flavors to your casserole, such as a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce, to add a unique twist to your dish. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can also enhance the flavor and add a touch of freshness.
8. DIY Cheese: If cheese is expensive, consider making your own plant-based cheese using cashews, nutritional yeast, and spices. This can be more cost-effective and allows you to control the flavor and texture. Store homemade cheese in the refrigerator and use within a few days.
9. Learning and Sharing: Join online cooking communities for more recipe ideas and tips. Sharing your own experiences can also help others and foster a sense of community. You can exchange recipes, cooking techniques, and meal prep tips with other home cooks, making the culinary journey more enjoyable and enriching.
10. Creative Presentations: Enhance the visual appeal of your casserole by garnishing with fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. These additions not only add flavor but also make the dish more appealing and enjoyable to eat. Serving the casserole with colorful side dishes like a simple salad or roasted vegetables can also elevate the presentation.

Let's Learn About the Difference Between Savoy Cabbage and Regular Cabbage

Savoy cabbage and regular (green) cabbage are both delicious, but they have some key differences. Savoy cabbage has crinkled, curly leaves that are tender and mildly sweet. It’s great for dishes where a delicate texture is needed, like salads or wraps. It also cooks faster due to its lighter texture.

Regular cabbage has smooth, tightly packed leaves with a firmer texture and a slightly peppery flavor. It’s perfect for hearty dishes like soups, stews, and traditional cabbage rolls because it holds up well during long cooking times.

When choosing between the two, use Savoy cabbage for lighter, quicker dishes, and regular cabbage for more robust, slow-cooked meals. Both are nutritious, so it’s all about matching the cabbage to your recipe!