Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe

Lora Lopez

Posted on May 16, 2025

This Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe is a comforting classic, reimagined for effortless weeknight cooking. Forget the painstaking process of individually wrapping cabbage leaves; this recipe delivers all the flavor and heartiness of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls in a simple, one-pan casserole. Imagine tender cabbage leaves nestled in a rich and savory ground beef and rice mixture, simmered to perfection in a tangy tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a satisfying meal for guests, offering a delicious and convenient alternative to the traditional dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make, and it’s guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food upgrade with this amazing casserole!

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe

This Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe isn’t just another casserole; it’s a culinary masterpiece designed for busy weeknights. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it:

Effortless Preparation: No more tedious rolling of individual cabbage leaves! This casserole simplifies the classic recipe, saving you precious time and effort.
One-Pan Convenience: Cleanup is a breeze with just one pan to wash!
Unmatched Flavor: The rich tomato sauce, savory ground beef, and tender cabbage create a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Hearty and Satisfying: This casserole is packed with protein and carbohydrates, providing a filling and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Customizable: Feel free to add your own personal touch! Experiment with different cheeses, vegetables, or spices to create your own unique variation of this Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the casserole components ahead of time and assemble it just before baking, making it ideal for meal prepping.
Freezer-Friendly: Prepare a double batch and freeze half for a quick and easy meal on a busy night. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Why You Should Try This Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe

Beyond its convenience and deliciousness, this Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe offers numerous advantages:

Cost-Effective: This recipe utilizes budget-friendly ingredients, making it a delicious and affordable option for families.
Nutrient-Rich: Cabbage is a powerhouse of vitamins and antioxidants, while ground beef provides essential protein. This casserole is a healthy and flavorful way to enjoy your vegetables.
Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is a guaranteed hit with everyone, from picky eaters to seasoned foodies.
Versatile: It’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a special holiday meal.
Improves with Leftovers: The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making the leftovers even more delicious.
Adaptable to Dietary Needs: This recipe can be easily adapted to accommodate various dietary preferences, such as vegetarian or gluten-free diets (see variations below).

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Your Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe

Gathering the right ingredients and tools is crucial for a successful Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

1 large head of green cabbage (about 2 pounds): Choose a firm, tightly-packed cabbage for the best results. Look for one without blemishes or soft spots.
1 pound ground beef: You can use lean ground beef or a higher fat content depending on your preference. Ground turkey or a vegetarian substitute can also be used.
1/2 cup uncooked long-grain rice: Long-grain rice holds its shape well in this recipe. Avoid using instant rice.
1 medium onion, chopped: Yellow onion is a classic choice, but you can also experiment with white or red onions.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a significant depth of flavor.
1 (15 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Look for a high-quality brand with minimal added ingredients.
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce: Use your favorite brand of tomato sauce.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano is a staple in many Italian-inspired dishes, complementing the tomato base.
1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Basil adds a touch of sweetness and herbaceousness to the dish.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Adjust according to your taste preference.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is always best.
1/2 cup beef broth: Low-sodium beef broth is recommended to control the salt content.
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Sharp cheddar cheese is a classic pairing, but you can use any cheese you prefer.

Necessary Utensils:

Large pot for blanching cabbage leaves
Large skillet for browning the ground beef and sautéing vegetables
9×13 inch baking dish
Sharp knife for chopping vegetables and trimming cabbage leaves
Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Measuring cups and spoons
Colander for draining excess fat
Aluminum foil to cover the casserole during baking

Detailed Recipe Steps for your Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

Follow these detailed steps to create a truly delicious Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly.
Prepare the cabbage: Remove the core from the cabbage and separate the leaves. **Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes** until softened but still slightly firm. This helps make them more pliable for layering. Immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and retain their vibrant green color. Set aside to cool.
Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. **Break up the beef with a spoon** as it cooks to prevent large clumps. Once browned, **drain off any excess fat**. This step is essential for preventing a greasy casserole.
Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. **Stir frequently** to prevent burning.
Combine the filling ingredients: Stir in the uncooked rice, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. **Bring the mixture to a simmer**, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Remove from heat: Once the mixture has simmered for a few minutes, remove it from the heat. Let it cool slightly before assembling the casserole.
Assemble the casserole: Spread a thin layer of the meat mixture in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. This creates a flavorful base.
Layer the cabbage leaves: Arrange the softened cabbage leaves over the meat mixture, slightly overlapping them. **Trim any overly large leaves** to fit the baking dish.
Top with remaining meat mixture: Evenly spoon the remaining meat mixture over the cabbage leaves.
Add the beef broth: Pour the beef broth over the casserole. This helps create a moist and flavorful casserole.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. **This ensures the rice cooks thoroughly and the cabbage softens.**
Finish baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid has reduced. The casserole is done when the top is lightly browned and the liquid has thickened.
Add cheese (optional): If desired, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking. This adds a delicious cheesy topping.
Rest: Let the casserole stand for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve.

Tips and Variations for Your Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

This Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are some tips and variations to make it your own:

Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Add more vegetables: Incorporate chopped carrots, celery, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.
Different cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses.
Gluten-free option: Ensure all your ingredients are gluten-free, particularly the broth.
Vegetarian/Vegan adaptation: Replace the ground beef with lentils, crumbled tofu, or mushrooms for a vegetarian or vegan version. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Slow Cooker version: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Avoid overcooking the cabbage: Overcooked cabbage can become mushy. Blanch the leaves just until they are softened but still hold their shape.
Don’t drain all the fat: Leave a little bit of the rendered fat from the ground beef for extra flavor and richness.

Nutritional Values and Health Benefits of this Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

This Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is not just delicious; it’s also surprisingly nutritious! While exact nutritional values depend on the specific ingredients used, here’s a general overview of the health benefits:

Cabbage: Cabbage is packed with vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes gut health. It’s also a good source of antioxidants. Learn more about the nutritional benefits of cabbage on Wikipedia.
Ground Beef: A good source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues. Choose lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
Rice: Provides carbohydrates for energy. Choose brown rice for added fiber and nutrients.
Tomatoes: Rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to reduced risk of certain diseases.
Garlic: Known for its antiviral and antibacterial properties. It also contributes to the overall flavor profile.
Oregano and Basil: These herbs add flavor and are also rich in antioxidants.

Note: The nutritional information provided is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient list.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about this Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe

Here are answers to some common questions about this Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe:

Can I use different types of rice? While long-grain rice is recommended, you can experiment with other types of rice, but keep in mind that the cooking time might need adjustment.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the casserole the day of baking. You can also assemble it completely and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Add an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
What if my cabbage leaves are too tough? Blanch them for a longer time, or even briefly microwave them before layering.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted. You may need to adjust the seasoning to taste.
What can I serve with this casserole? A side of crusty bread, a simple green salad, or mashed potatoes complement this Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole perfectly.
How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, adding about 15-20 minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

This Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe is a true testament to the power of simple, comforting food. With its ease of preparation, delicious flavor, and nutritional benefits, it’s a recipe that deserves a place in your culinary repertoire. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience in the comments section below! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family – it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Happy cooking!