Cabbage Roll Casserole

Name: Cabbage Roll Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 large head of cabbage; 1 pound ground beef or turkey; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional); Sour cream for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love making Cabbage Roll Casserole because it brings together so many comforting flavors in one dish. The combination of tender cabbage, savory ground meat, and zesty tomato sauce creates a delicious balance that I always look forward to. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers during the week. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying your cravings. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a regular in your dinner rotation!

Created by

Sophie Adams

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:53:35.651Z

When I first discovered Cabbage Roll Casserole, I was hesitant, thinking it wouldn’t capture the essence of the traditional stuffed cabbage rolls I grew up with. After my first attempt, I was pleasantly surprised. The layers of cabbage, meat, rice, and tomato sauce meld beautifully, making it a quick and satisfying meal that’s just as good as the oven-baked version.

One key tip I learned is to use fresh cabbage leaves as they provide a sweeter taste and better texture. This dish can be customizable too; you can experiment with different types of ground meat or add spices to elevate the flavors. Enjoying this casserole with a dollop of sour cream really takes it to the next level!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying meal that warms the soul
Customizable with your favorite meats and spices
Easy to prepare and perfect for make-ahead meals

Choosing the Right Cabbage

When making Cabbage Roll Casserole, the type of cabbage you choose can significantly impact the dish's flavor and texture. Green cabbage is the most commonly used variety for this recipe due to its mild flavor and sturdy leaves that hold up well during cooking. If you're feeling adventurous, you might also consider Savoy cabbage for a more delicate and slightly sweeter touch. Just remember, the key is to select a fresh head with tightly packed leaves for the best results.

Properly blanching the cabbage is crucial to ensure the leaves are pliable enough for rolling. After boiling them for about five minutes, they should be tender but not fully cooked. This technique helps to maintain their integrity during baking, preventing them from falling apart. If you encounter any stubborn leaves that are hard to remove, a gentle tug or slicing along the core could help ease them off.

Making the Meat Filling

The filling is the heart of this casserole, and customizing it to your taste makes all the difference. While ground beef or turkey is typical, feel free to swap in ground chicken or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. If you're using a leaner meat, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil during cooking to enhance flavor and prevent dryness. The spices you choose can also allow for experimentation; adding cumin or chili powder can impart a unique twist.

Don't underestimate the importance of sautéing the onions and garlic until translucent. This step builds a flavor base that permeates the filling, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Aim for a golden color to ensure they are well-cooked, which can take about 5-7 minutes. Mixing in the cooked rice is not only essential for texture but also helps absorb moisture, ensuring the filling is juicy yet firm enough for rolling.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious Cabbage Roll Casserole:

Ingredients

1 large head of cabbage
1 pound ground beef or turkey
1 cup cooked rice
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Sour cream for serving (optional)

With these ingredients, you are ready to create a delightful meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to put together your Cabbage Roll Casserole:

Prepare the Cabbage

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water. Blanch for about 5 minutes or until the leaves are tender. Remove and let cool. Carefully peel off the leaves.

Make the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in the cooked rice, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well and set aside.

Assemble the Casserole

In a large baking dish, spread a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom. Take each cabbage leaf and fill it with a portion of the meat mixture. Roll them up tightly and place them seam-side down in the dish. Repeat until the filling is used.

Add Sauce and Bake

Once all the rolls are snug in the dish, pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes. If desired, sprinkle cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes. Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.

Enjoy your homemade Cabbage Roll Casserole!

Pro Tips

To make this dish even easier, prepare the filling and sauce a day ahead and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can also freeze individual portions for later enjoyment!

Make-Ahead Tips

This Cabbage Roll Casserole is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the meat filling and assemble the casserole a day in advance; simply cover and refrigerate it overnight. This not only saves time on busy weekdays but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to bring the casserole to room temperature before baking for even cooking.

If you want to freeze the casserole, do so before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil or an airtight container, and it'll keep well for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Expect a baking time increase of about 10-15 minutes if baking it straight from the freezer.

Serving Suggestions

Cabbage Roll Casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. The creaminess of sour cream complements the dish perfectly, adding a rich finish. Don’t hesitate to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a bright touch.

For those looking to add more vegetables to this dish, consider layering in some spinach or zucchini in between the cabbage rolls. This not only boosts the nutritional content but also enhances the casserole’s flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if adding more ingredients to ensure everything is cooked through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even meat alternatives for a vegetarian option.

→ How long does this casserole keep?

Cabbage Roll Casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and bake it the next day.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.