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Easy Cabbage Roll Casserole

Savory Easy Cabbage Roll Casserole for Cozy Nights

This Easy Cabbage Roll Casserole combines savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and rich tomato sauce for a comforting dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with canola or vegetable oil.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Provides depth of flavor; can swap for shallots.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced; use garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Can be replaced with ground turkey, pork, or plant-based options.
  • 4 cups Cabbage Chopped; savoy or napa cabbage can offer a different texture.
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes Canned; fresh chopped tomatoes can be used for freshness.
  • 1 cup Tomato Sauce Marinara sauce can be used for added flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste or use a low-sodium variant.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds mild heat; omit for a milder dish.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Can substitute with regular paprika.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Optional but highly recommended.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Optional but highly recommended.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Optional; omit for a milder dish.
For Serving Suggestions
  • 1 Crusty Bread Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
  • 2 cups Mashed Potatoes A fantastic side for a hearty meal.
  • 1 Side Salad Balances the richness of the casserole.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by removing the outer leaves of the cabbage, then quarter it and carefully core each piece. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, yielding about 4 cups. Set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add a diced yellow onion, sautéing it for about 3 minutes, or until it begins to soften. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
  3. Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
  4. Stir in the chopped cabbage, mixing thoroughly. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, or until the cabbage softens slightly.
  5. To the skillet, add 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 cup of tomato sauce, and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir until well combined and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer the meat and cabbage mixture. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  7. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; adjust seasonings to your preference. For a meatless option, swap ground beef with lentils or quinoa.

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