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Introduction
Cabbage rolls, or "gołąbki" in Polish cuisine, are a beloved comfort food that combines tender cabbage leaves, seasoned ground meat, and rice in a savory tomato sauce. However, making traditional cabbage rolls can be time-consuming. That’s where cabbage roll casserole comes in—it delivers all the rich, hearty flavors of the original dish with much less effort. This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a warm and filling meal to feed a crowd.
Ingredients
For the casserole:
1 pound ground beef (or ground pork for extra richness)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small head of cabbage, chopped
1 cup cooked white rice
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
For garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Sour cream (optional)
Directions
Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Cook the Meat
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Drain any excess grease.
Prepare the Cabbage & Sauce
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet, stirring occasionally until slightly softened. Mix in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Assemble the Casserole
Spread half of the cabbage mixture in the baking dish. Layer the cooked rice on top, then add the remaining cabbage mixture. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the top.
Bake to Perfection
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, until the cheese (if used) is melted and bubbly.
Serve & Enjoy
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Serving & Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a side of crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Variations
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