When the weather cools down or you’re craving something hearty and homey, few dishes hit the spot like a Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole. It takes all the best elements of traditional cabbage rolls—savory meat, tender rice, rich tomato sauce—and turns them into an easy, layered bake that’s full of flavor and comfort.
This dish reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen on a Sunday afternoon. While classic cabbage rolls were a labor of love, this casserole brings the same flavor with a fraction of the effort. It’s perfect for family dinners and always leaves enough for a satisfying next-day lunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- All the Flavor, Less Work: Skip the rolling and still enjoy the classic taste.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein, rice, and cabbage.
- One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes and easy cleanup.
- Great for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day.
- Halal Ingredients: Simple and wholesome.
- Customizable: Use your favorite ground meat or add extra veggies.
Ingredients You'll Need
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Substitutions: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Brown rice works well too, and crushed tomatoes can stand in for diced if that’s what you have.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Meat Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant. Stir in tomato paste, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Tip: Drain excess fat if needed for a less greasy casserole.
2. Add Tomatoes and Sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 5–7 minutes to develop flavor.
Tip: Simmering helps concentrate the sauce and balance the acidity.
3. Prepare the Cabbage and Rice
While the sauce simmers, chop the cabbage and cook the rice (if not already done). In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped cabbage with cooked rice.
Tip: Lightly steam cabbage first if you prefer a softer texture in the final dish.
4. Assemble the Casserole
In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread half the cabbage and rice mixture. Top with half the meat sauce. Repeat layers, ending with sauce on top.
Tip: Press down lightly between layers to help them set during baking.
5. Bake
Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40–45 minutes, until bubbly and cabbage is tender. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes to lightly brown the top.
Tip: Let rest 10–15 minutes before serving to help everything hold together.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve warm, straight from the oven, with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color. This casserole also pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a balanced meal.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot. You can also freeze individual portions—just thaw overnight and reheat gently.
Helpful Notes
- Layer Smart: Make sure to spread ingredients evenly to avoid dry spots.
- Let It Rest: Resting time after baking helps the layers set and flavors settle.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or cayenne if you like a little heat.
- Make It Vegetarian: Use lentils or plant-based crumbles instead of meat.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
Yes, bagged coleslaw mix works well and saves time—just make sure it’s plain, without dressing. - Do I have to cook the rice first?
Yes, the rice should be fully cooked before assembling the casserole. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble it earlier in the day and refrigerate until ready to bake. - What’s the best way to freeze leftovers?
Portion into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. - Why is my casserole watery?
It may be from excess moisture in the cabbage or undrained tomatoes. Be sure to drain ingredients and avoid overwatering.
Final Thoughts
Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is the kind of dish that warms both the kitchen and the heart. It’s comforting, filling, and easy to make ahead—perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Pair it with a side of crusty bread and a crisp salad for a full meal your whole family will love.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: ~360 per serving
Servings: 6–8
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