Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

If you’re craving comfort food with a twist, this Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is exactly what you need. It captures all the warm, hearty flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls but in an easier, faster casserole form that’s perfect for weeknight family dinners or meal prep. This dish combines savory meat, tender cabbage, flavorful tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked rice into one satisfying bake, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Convenient: Takes less time than classic cabbage rolls but delivers all the comforting goodness.
• One-Dish Meal: Combines protein, veggies, and grains in a single casserole for easy cleanup.
• Family-Friendly Flavors: Loved by kids and adults alike thanks to its savory tomato sauce and tender texture.
• Customizable: Easy to swap ingredients to accommodate taste and dietary preferences.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for prepping in advance or freezing for busy days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole comes from simple ingredients that pack flavor and texture. Each item plays a key role whether it’s tenderizing the cabbage, seasoning the meat, or adding moisture and richness to the bake.

• Ground beef or turkey: Provides protein and a rich base flavor; choose lean for a lighter dish.
• Cabbage: The star veggie; tender leaves add crunch and volume without heaviness.
• Cooked rice: Classic filler in cabbage rolls, giving the casserole satisfying texture.
• Onion and garlic: Aromatics that add depth and warmth to the filling.
• Tomato sauce and diced tomatoes: Create a luscious, tangy sauce that keeps everything moist.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, and optional herbs add vibrant, balanced flavor.
• Olive oil or butter: Helps with sautéing and adds richness to the dish.

Variations for Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! The beauty of the Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is how easy it is to adapt based on your taste preferences or dietary needs.

• Vegetarian version: Swap the ground meat for lentils, chickpeas, or plant-based crumbles.
• Spicy kick: Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for some heat.
• Cheesy topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a melty finish.
• Low-carb tweak: Replace rice with cauliflower rice or omit it altogether.
• Herb variations: Experiment with dill, thyme, or parsley for different flavor profiles.

How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the cabbage

Start by removing the tough outer leaves of the cabbage and boiling the head for just a few minutes to soften the leaves slightly. Drain and chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, setting aside half for the filling and half for layering in the casserole.

Step 2: Cook the filling

Sauté diced onions and garlic in olive oil until translucent and fragrant. Add the ground beef or turkey, breaking it up as it cooks until browned. Stir in cooked rice, half of the chopped cabbage, seasonings, and half of the tomato sauce mixture to combine everything evenly.

Step 3: Layer the casserole

Begin by adding a layer of the remaining chopped cabbage to the bottom of your casserole dish. Next, spread the meat and rice filling evenly on top, then pour the remaining tomato sauce over the entire dish.

Step 4: Bake until bubbly

Cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes if you want a slight caramelization on top.

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

• Use a mix of beef and pork: For a more traditional flavor, combine ground beef with ground pork.
• Don’t overcook the cabbage: Slightly undercooking the cabbage at the boil step keeps it from turning mushy during baking.
• Drain excess fat: After browning the meat, drain off fat to avoid a greasy casserole.
• Let it rest: Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes before serving so it sets nicely.
• Add acidity: A splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice brightens the tomato sauce beautifully.

How to Serve Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

Garnishes

Top with freshly chopped parsley, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of sharp cheese for extra flavor and a pop of color.

Side Dishes

This casserole shines on its own but pairs well with simple sides like a crisp green salad, crusty bread, or roasted root vegetables.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in mini casserole dishes or ramekins for charming family-style dinners; alternatively, turn leftovers into hearty stuffed cabbage roll wraps using large cabbage leaves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight!

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through, usually 20-25 minutes covered to avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cabbage?

Yes, green cabbage works best for this recipe, but savoy or napa cabbage can be used for a slightly different texture and flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free tomato sauce and seasonings, this casserole is naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute meat with plant-based alternatives like lentils or mushrooms and use dairy-free cheese or skip it altogether.

How long does it take to cook this casserole?

The total active prep and cook time is about 60 minutes, including boiling the cabbage, preparing the filling, layering, and baking.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Cover the dish when reheating, whether in the oven or microwave, and add a splash of water or extra tomato sauce if needed to maintain moisture.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal any night of the week. With its simple ingredients, adaptable recipe, and that classic comforting flavor, it’s a dish that quickly becomes a staple in your family dinner rotation. Give it a try tonight—you might just discover your new favorite comfort food!

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