Cabbage Roll Casserole

Cozy Comfort in a Casserole Dish

If you love the idea of classic cabbage rolls but want a quicker, fuss-free way to enjoy all those savory, comforting flavors, this Cabbage Roll Casserole is your new best friend. Picture tender cabbage layered with hearty ground beef, fragrant onions, tangy tomato sauce, and just the right amount of seasoning—all baked together into one delicious, cheesy casserole. Trust me, you’re going to love how this dish feels like a warm, satisfying hug on a plate.

It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or anytime you crave a hearty, homestyle meal that’s simple but bursting with flavor. This one’s a total game-changer—classic comfort food made easy.

Why You’ll Love Cabbage Roll Casserole

This casserole is all about convenience without sacrificing taste.

Versatile: Great for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd. Serve with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a full meal.

Budget-Friendly: Uses basic pantry ingredients like cabbage, ground meat, and canned tomatoes. Affordable and filling!

Quick and Easy: Skips the rolling and fuss of traditional cabbage rolls but delivers the same comforting flavors.

Customizable: Swap ground beef for turkey or plant-based meat, add spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder, or toss in extra veggies.

Crowd-Pleasing: A hearty, flavorful dish that both kids and adults love—perfect for cozy family meals.

Ingredients in Cabbage Roll Casserole

Here’s what brings this comforting casserole to life:

Green Cabbage

Tender and mild, cabbage is the star veggie that adds bulk and texture.

Ground Beef

Rich and savory, it’s the protein that makes this dish hearty and satisfying.

Onion

Adds sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.

Garlic

For that irresistible aroma and flavor punch.

Tomato Sauce

The tangy base that ties everything together with warmth.

Cooked Rice

A classic addition that helps soak up the flavors and gives the casserole a great texture.

Shredded Cheese

Melty, gooey cheese on top for that golden, bubbly finish.

Seasonings

Salt, pepper, paprika, and a touch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s break down how to make this comforting casserole:

Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.

Prepare the Cabbage

Slice the cabbage into thin strips and blanch briefly in boiling water until just tender. Drain well.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in tomato sauce, cooked rice, and seasonings. Let it simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.

Assemble the Casserole

In a baking dish, layer half of the cabbage, then spread half of the beef mixture over it. Repeat with remaining cabbage and beef mixture. Top with shredded cheese.

Cook to Perfection

Bake uncovered for about 30–40 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.

Finishing Touches

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving so the layers set nicely and it’s easier to slice.

Serve and Enjoy

Dish it out warm, maybe with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Perfect comfort food on a plate!

How to Serve Cabbage Roll Casserole

Here are some tasty ideas to make your meal complete:

With a Side Salad: A crisp green salad balances the rich casserole.
Mashed Potatoes: Classic pairing that makes the meal extra comforting.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Adds a cool tang that complements the savory flavors.
Pickled Vegetables: A bright, acidic side that cuts through the richness.

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead: Blanch cabbage and cook filling ahead to save time on busy days.
Use Leftovers: This casserole is fantastic reheated for lunch or dinner.
Add Veggies: Carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be added to the beef mixture for extra nutrition.
Make It Lighter: Use lean ground turkey and less cheese for a lighter version.
Freeze for Later: This dish freezes well—just bake from frozen, adding extra time.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A1: Absolutely! Ground turkey works great and lightens the dish.

Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A2: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Q3: Can I freeze the casserole?
A3: Yes! Freeze in portions and reheat in the oven until warm throughout.

Q4: Can I skip the rice?
A4: You can, but rice adds great texture and helps bind the filling.

Q5: How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?
A5: Make sure to drain the cabbage well after blanching and don’t over-simmer the filling.

Q6: Can I add more cheese?
A6: Of course! Feel free to add more or try different cheese varieties like mozzarella or pepper jack.

Q7: What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
A7: Tomato paste mixed with broth or crushed tomatoes can work as substitutes.

Q8: Can I make this vegetarian?
A8: Yes! Use lentils or plant-based meat alternatives instead of beef.

Q9: How spicy is this dish?
A9: It’s mild by default, but you can add chili flakes or hot sauce to taste.

Q10: What’s the best cookware to use?
A10: A 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole pan works perfectly.

Conclusion

This Cabbage Roll Casserole takes all the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls and turns them into a quick, no-fuss dish everyone will love. It’s hearty, flavorful, and simple enough to become a regular in your dinner rotation. So next time you want that cozy, homemade taste without the rolling and prep, this casserole has got your back. Get ready to dig into warm, cheesy goodness—your new favorite comfort meal awaits!

Print