If you’re searching for a comforting, hearty dish that captures the essence of classic cabbage rolls but with less fuss, this Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. It layers tender cabbage, savory ground beef, perfectly cooked rice, and a blend of melted cheeses all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping a cozy dinner for friends, this recipe delivers a warm, satisfying meal that feels like a big, delicious hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity and balance of flavors. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the sharpness of the cheddar to the gentle sweetness from brown sugar, creating a harmony that is both hearty and comforting.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Provides the meaty base packed with protein and rich flavor.
- 1 medium onion (peeled and chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the savory beef mixture.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth that enhances every bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Offers a mild earthiness and vibrant color.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the onion flavor making the dish more flavorful.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional): Brings a hint of heat for those who like a little kick.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Balances the acidity of tomato sauce with subtle sweetness.
- 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce: Creates a luscious sauce binding all ingredients together.
- 1 14.5-ounce can low sodium beef broth: Adds moisture and deepens the beefy taste.
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked): Absorbs flavors while giving the casserole a satisfying texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to soften the cabbage with gentle richness.
- 1 medium head green cabbage (chopped): The star veggie providing both crunch and softness as it cooks down.
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar (shredded): Delivers a sharp, tangy cheese flavor that melts beautifully.
- 1 1/2 cups Monterey Jack cheese (shredded): Adds creamy, mild flavor and gooey texture.
How to Make Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it is ready once your casserole is assembled. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier later.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion
Start by crumbling the ground beef into a large pot over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and cook until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Lower the heat, add the minced garlic, and cook just a minute longer to release its fragrance. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat after cooking to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Simmer the Meat Mixture with Rice and Spices
Next, stir in the paprika, onion powder, optional cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous, and brown sugar. Pour in the tomato sauce and low sodium beef broth, then mix in the uncooked rice. Bring this to a gentle boil, cover, and let simmer for about 20 minutes so the rice absorbs the flavors and becomes tender without getting mushy.
Step 4: Sauté the Cabbage
While the meat and rice sit, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped cabbage and cook until it softens just slightly, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step brings out the cabbage’s natural sweetness and ensures it integrates perfectly into our casserole.
Step 5: Layer Everything in the Casserole Dish
Now for the fun part: layering! Start by spreading half the cooked cabbage evenly on the bottom of your prepared dish. Spoon half of the beef and rice mixture over the cabbage, then sprinkle with half of the sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage, beef and rice, then top with the last of the cheeses to create that irresistible melty crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake it in your preheated oven for 20 minutes. This cover helps the flavors meld and the cheese begin to melt. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and return it to the oven for another 20 minutes to brown the cheese beautifully and finish cooking the dish through.
How to Serve Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkling of fresh chopped parsley or green onions adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that contrasts perfectly with the richness of the casserole. For a creamy touch, a dollop of sour cream on top gives an extra layer of indulgence that feels just like the cabbage roll tradition.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands well on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp, light sides like a fresh green salad or roasted root vegetables. Pick something bright and fresh to balance the cozy, meaty casserole. A crusty slice of bread or garlic toast also helps scoop up all those tasty juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style dinner, serve the casserole straight from the dish so everyone can dig in warm and gooey. If you’re prepping for guests, portion it into individual ramekins before baking for an elegant, personalized touch that looks impressive and invites smiles at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover casserole into an airtight container and store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
This Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the casserole tightly with foil and plastic wrap or portion into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months to enjoy later without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through to preserve the texture and taste. Microwaving works in a pinch, but baking helps bring back that delightful melted cheese and fresh-cooked cabbage feel.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this casserole and will produce a lighter dish while still complementing the flavors beautifully.
Is it necessary to use both cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese?
Using both adds depth — cheddar brings sharpness, while Monterey Jack offers a creamy, mild meltiness. However, you can use all cheddar or all Monterey Jack if you prefer a simpler cheese profile.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses rice and no wheat-based ingredients. Just be sure your beef broth and tomato sauce are certified gluten-free to be safe.
What texture should the cabbage have after cooking?
The cabbage should be tender but still retain a slight bite, giving the casserole a lovely texture contrast to the soft rice and meaty layers.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can cook the beef mixture and sauté the cabbage a day ahead, then assemble and bake just before serving for maximum ease.
Final Thoughts
This Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like home in every bite. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion where comfort food is what you crave. Trust me, once you try it, this casserole will become a regular in your kitchen rotation — and you’ll love how effortlessly it brings a classic favorite to your table.
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Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Cabbage Roll Casserole combines all the flavors of classic cabbage rolls in a comforting layered bake, perfect for a family dinner. Ground beef, savory spices, tender cabbage, and a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese come together in a baked casserole that’s easy to prepare and satisfying to eat.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, peeled and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Flavorings
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Liquids and Grains
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can low sodium beef broth
- 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
Vegetables
- 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
Dairy
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 1/2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
- Cook Ground Beef and Onions: In a large pot over medium heat, crumble the ground beef and add the chopped onion. Cook until the beef is completely browned and the onions are softened. Reduce heat to low, add minced garlic, and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently. Drain off any excess fat.
- Add Spices and Rice: Stir in paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), brown sugar, tomato sauce, beef broth, and uncooked white rice. Bring this mixture to a slow boil, then cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
- Sauté Cabbage: While the beef and rice are cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped cabbage and sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes, until it becomes slightly tender but still has some texture.
- Assemble the Casserole: In your prepared casserole dish, spread half of the cooked cabbage evenly on the bottom. Layer half of the beef and rice mixture over the cabbage. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses on top. Repeat the layering with the remaining cabbage, beef and rice mixture, and finish with the remaining cheeses on top.
- Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes, allowing the cheese on top to melt and brown slightly.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you prefer spicier dishes, increase the cayenne pepper to 1/2 teaspoon or add red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- This casserole freezes well; assemble but do not bake, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before baking as directed.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the beef broth is gluten free.
