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Introduction
If you love the flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls but want a simpler, fuss-free version, this Cabbage Roll Casserole is the perfect dish for you. Packed with ground meat, rice, tomatoes, and tender cabbage, this comforting bake delivers all the heartwarming flavors of the classic Polish dish—without the tedious rolling! Whether you're cooking for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is a convenient and satisfying option.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small head of cabbage, chopped
1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
For Garnish (Optional):
Fresh parsley, chopped
Sour cream
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Cook the Meat:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Season and Mix:
Stir in the salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and oregano. Add the Worcestershire sauce, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce, mixing well. Let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
Layer the Casserole:
Spread half of the chopped cabbage in the prepared baking dish. Evenly distribute the uncooked rice over the cabbage. Pour half of the meat sauce over the rice, then repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining meat sauce.
Add Broth and Bake:
Pour the beef broth over the layers to ensure the rice cooks properly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Final Touch:
Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top (if using), and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions: Pair this casserole with a slice of crusty bread, a side of roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Once cooled, store portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until warmed through.
Variations
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