Cabbage Roll Casserole
Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Ideas
I absolutely love making Cabbage Roll Casserole on busy weekdays. This dish combines all the traditional flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls but in a simplified, hearty casserole form. With layers of tender cabbage, savory ground meat, and a rich tomato sauce, it's like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, it's so easy to prepare; I can whip it up in no time and have leftovers for days. My family adores it, and I love how it brings everyone to the table for a comforting meal.
During one particularly chilly evening, I decided to revisit a classic family dish—Cabbage Roll Casserole. With the aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through my kitchen, I was reminded of family gatherings filled with laughter and joy. It’s such a comforting dish, filled with nostalgia and warmth.
I experimented with adding a touch of smoked paprika to the meat mixture, which elevated the flavor beautifully. The key is to properly layer the ingredients; it ensures that every bite is bursting with all the delicious elements. It's a surprisingly easy way to enjoy the traditional flavors without the hassle of rolling cabbage leaves!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Warm and comforting, perfect for family dinners
- Savory layers of flavor and texture in every bite
- Easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
Cabbage Preparation Tips
When preparing the cabbage leaves, it's essential to ensure they are adequately blanched to achieve the right texture. Blanching them in boiling water for just about 2 minutes softens the leaves without making them too limp. If you're unsure, check for flexibility; they should bend without cracking. After blanching, plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color. This technique helps the cabbage retain both its texture and nutritional value.
If you find that the leaves are still difficult to roll after blanching, try steaming them for a few more minutes until they soften further. Alternatively, consider cutting out the thick midrib of each leaf, as this will make them more pliable. This step can save you from tearing the leaves when layering them in your casserole.
Building Flavor in the Meat Mixture
The combination of ground beef and pork provides a rich flavor base for the casserole. If you'd like to keep it lighter, feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken, but remember this may alter the overall flavor profile. To enhance the taste, adding herbs like thyme or oregano can elevate the dish even further. Additionally, you can sauté these herbs with the onions and garlic at the beginning for a more robust flavor.
The Worcestershire sauce is an essential ingredient in heightening the umami notes of this dish. If you find yourself out of Worcestershire sauce, a mixture of soy sauce and a splash of vinegar can act as a suitable replacement. Just adjust to taste, as these substitutes can sometimes be saltier.
Serving Suggestions and Leftover Storage
Once your casserole is out of the oven, allow it to rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve. Cabbage Roll Casserole pairs wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill for a pop of color and freshness. Consider serving it with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad to balance the dish's hearty nature.
For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. You can also freeze portions for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes, adding cheese towards the last ten minutes if desired.
Ingredients
Cabbage Roll Casserole Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
For this recipe, make sure your cabbage is fresh and firm for the best texture.
Steps
Prepare the Cabbage
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the core from the cabbage and carefully peel off 12 large leaves. Blanch them in boiling water for about 2 minutes until just tender, then set aside.
Cook the Meat Mixture
In a large skillet, cook the chopped onion and garlic over medium heat until softened. Add the ground beef and pork, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cooked meat, crushed tomatoes, rice, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Layer the Casserole
In a greased baking dish, start by layering cabbage leaves at the bottom. Add half of the meat mixture, then repeat with more cabbage and the remaining meat mixture.
Bake
Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top if using, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some chopped bell peppers or fresh herbs like parsley to the meat mixture.
Tips for a Perfect Bake
Baking the casserole covered with foil initially allows it to steam and heat evenly without drying out. However, be sure to remove the foil during the final stages of baking to achieve a golden, bubbly top. Keep an eye on the casserole during this time to avoid the cheese from burning; ideally, it should be melted and slightly browned at the edges.
If your casserole seems too liquidy after baking, this could be due to the type of crushed tomatoes used. To fix this, try adding a couple of tablespoons of tomato paste to the meat mixture next time, which can help thicken the sauce.
Variations to Explore
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for the topping. Cheddar is a classic choice, but mozzarella adds a delightful stretchiness, while pepper jack brings a spicy kick. Additionally, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture for extra nutrition and flavor complexity.
To cater to a plant-based diet, swap out the meat for lentils or black beans mixed with some sautéed vegetables. Use vegetable broth in place of beef broth, and you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal that everyone can enjoy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the fridge, then bake it when ready.
→ Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives for a leaner option.
→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, it freezes well. Just portion it out into airtight containers after baking and it will last for 2-3 months.
→ What can I serve with this casserole?
A simple side salad or some crusty bread pairs wonderfully with this hearty dish.
Cabbage Roll Casserole
I absolutely love making Cabbage Roll Casserole on busy weekdays. This dish combines all the traditional flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls but in a simplified, hearty casserole form. With layers of tender cabbage, savory ground meat, and a rich tomato sauce, it's like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, it's so easy to prepare; I can whip it up in no time and have leftovers for days. My family adores it, and I love how it brings everyone to the table for a comforting meal.
Created by: Sophie Adams
Recipe Type: Home Comfort Food Ideas
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Cabbage Roll Casserole Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the core from the cabbage and carefully peel off 12 large leaves. Blanch them in boiling water for about 2 minutes until just tender, then set aside.
In a large skillet, cook the chopped onion and garlic over medium heat until softened. Add the ground beef and pork, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
In a large bowl, mix the cooked meat, crushed tomatoes, rice, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
In a greased baking dish, start by layering cabbage leaves at the bottom. Add half of the meat mixture, then repeat with more cabbage and the remaining meat mixture.
Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top if using, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Extra Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some chopped bell peppers or fresh herbs like parsley to the meat mixture.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g