Cabbage Roll Casserole
Experience the warm and hearty goodness of cabbage roll casserole—a comforting twist on traditional cabbage rolls. This dish combines layers of tender cabbage leaves with savory meat, rice, and a rich tomato sauce, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. It’s easy to prepare and sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
Ingredients
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 6 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is roughly 1 hour.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. This is based on standard ingredients and may vary with substitutions.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the cabbage leaves for 2-3 minutes until pliable.
3. In a skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.
4. In a bowl, mix ground beef, cooked rice, sautéed onion, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Spread a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
6. Place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface and spoon a portion of the meat mixture in the center.
7. Roll the cabbage leaf tightly around the filling and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
8. Repeat until all filling is used, layering rolls as needed.
9. Pour remaining tomato sauce over the rolls and sprinkle with cheese if desired.
10. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, brown rice or quinoa can replace white rice for a healthier twist.
Serving and Pairings
Cabbage roll casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Cooking Mistakes
– Overcooking the cabbage can make it mushy.
– Not seasoning the meat mixture adequately will result in bland flavor.
– Skipping the blanching step can lead to tough leaves.
– Using too much liquid can make the casserole soupy.
– Forgetting to cover with foil may dry out the dish.
Helpful Tips
– Use a sharp knife to cut the core out of the cabbage for easier leaf removal.
– Prepare the filling ahead of time for a quicker assembly.
– Experiment with spices like cumin or oregano for added flavor.
– Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
FAQs
Can I make cabbage roll casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance, assemble it, and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just adjust the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free rice and ensuring the tomato sauce is free from gluten-containing ingredients.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms can be added to the meat mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
What can I use instead of rice?
Quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even lentils can be substituted for rice in the filling for a different texture and flavor.
How long does the casserole last in the fridge?
The casserole can last for up to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Cabbage roll casserole is not just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings family and friends together. With its layers of flavor and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. Enjoy this delightful recipe and share the warmth it brings!
Cabbage Roll Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 can 8 oz tomato sauce
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the cabbage leaves for 2-3 minutes until pliable.
- In a skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, cooked rice, sautéed onion, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Spread a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface and spoon a portion of the meat mixture in the center.
- Roll the cabbage leaf tightly around the filling and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Repeat until all filling is used, layering rolls as needed.
- Pour remaining tomato sauce over the rolls and sprinkle with cheese if desired.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
