If you love the comforting, nostalgic flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but want a quicker and fuss-free way to enjoy them, this Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. All the delicious ingredients of cabbage, ground beef, rice, and rich tomato sauce come together in an easy layered bake that’s rich, hearty, and perfect for a family dinner. The beauty of this recipe is how it captures the essence of stuffed cabbage rolls without the tedious rolling, letting you savor every bite in a much simpler, satisfying way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step to creating a dish that balances flavors, textures, and colors in the most wonderful way. Each component plays its part: the cabbage brings crunch and freshness, the ground beef provides savory richness, and the tomato-based sauce ties it all together with tang and warmth.
- Ground beef (1 ½ pounds): Use fresh, lean ground beef for a juicy and flavorful base.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps soften onions and garlic while adding smoothness to the sauce.
- Onion, chopped (1 medium): Adds a natural sweetness and aromatic depth when sautéed.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Brings a subtle punch that lifts the entire casserole.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): Infuse bright, slightly acidic notes that brighten the dish.
- Tomato sauce (1 can, 15 oz): Provides a smooth, rich base for the sauce that coats every bite.
- Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a savory umami depth that enhances the meatiness.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Lends a warm herbal aroma that complements the tomato and meat.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): A touch of smoky sweetness and a vibrant color boost.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Season to taste, balancing all flavors perfectly.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds mild heat and spice for excitement on the palate.
- Green cabbage, chopped (3 cups): The star vegetable that gives this casserole a nice bite and freshness.
- Cooked white rice (2 cups): Acts as a tender, filling layer that harmonizes with the meat and cabbage.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 ½ cups): Melts into a gooey, golden topping that everyone will love.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A bright, fresh garnish to finish the dish with a pop of color.
How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick and cleans up easily afterward.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and stir for an additional minute to release its fragrance without browning.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it thoroughly, breaking it up with your spoon to avoid large clumps. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
Step 4: Build the Flavorful Sauce
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste, mixing until everything is well combined. Add Worcestershire sauce, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let this simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes to meld all the flavors beautifully.
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
In your prepared baking dish, start by layering half of the chopped cabbage evenly. Next, add half of the cooked rice over the cabbage, followed by half of the meat sauce. Repeat this layering sequence with the remaining cabbage, rice, and meat sauce, creating a hearty stack full of flavor.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover the dish with foil to trap moisture and bake for 40 minutes. This allows the cabbage to soften perfectly and the flavors to combine into a comforting, rich casserole.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden for that irresistible finish.
Step 8: Rest and Garnish
Once baked, let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes to set. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for an inviting fresh touch before serving.
How to Serve Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens the look and lends a subtle herbaceous pop that complements the richness perfectly. For an extra touch, a spoonful of sour cream on the side can add creaminess and tang.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands beautifully on its own but pairs delightfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables, balancing the meal with freshness. Crusty bread also makes for a perfect accompaniment to scoop up every last bit of that flavorful sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, consider serving this casserole in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets for a charming, personal touch. You can also layer it in a clear glass casserole for a visually appealing presentation showcasing all those gorgeous layers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole keeps remarkably well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing to maintain texture and flavor.
Freezing
One of the best parts about this recipe is how well it freezes. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze before baking. When you’re ready, bake it from frozen, just adding extra time to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through and the cheese is melted. Cover the casserole loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lighter alternative that still pairs wonderfully with the tomato sauce and cabbage, making for a leaner casserole without sacrificing flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free tomato products and Worcestershire sauce. Always double-check labels to be sure.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative. You may want to add extra seasoning to enhance the flavors.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle cayenne pepper for a satisfying kick.
Is it necessary to cook the rice before layering?
Yes, cooking the rice beforehand is important to ensure it’s tender and evenly cooked within the casserole, as it won’t have enough moisture or time to cook fully during baking.
Final Thoughts
This Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to comfort meals because it nails that perfect blend of hearty goodness and easy prep. It’s everything you love about cabbage rolls without the fuss, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort food!
Print
Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Eastern European
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting and easy-to-make Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole that captures all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the hassle of rolling. This dish features ground beef simmered with tomatoes, spices, and tender cabbage layered with cooked rice, then baked to perfection with melted mozzarella cheese on top. Perfect for a family dinner and can be adapted to gluten-free by using gluten-free tomato products.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups green cabbage, chopped
Tomato Sauce Mixture
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Add Tomato Mixture and Simmer: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 5–7 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Layer the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, create the first layer by spreading half of the chopped cabbage evenly, then half of the cooked white rice, and top with half of the meat sauce mixture. Repeat with the remaining cabbage, rice, and meat sauce forming a second layer.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. This allows the cabbage to soften and flavors to combine.
- Add Cheese and Continue Baking: Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top, and return to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly and golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- This casserole freezes well—assemble, cover tightly, and freeze before baking for easy future meals.
- Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version with less fat.
- Use gluten-free tomato products to make this dish gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before serving.
