Ann'S Cabbage Casserole
Ann's Cabbage Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish combining seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, rice, and a cheesy topping. Perfect for family dinners, it offers a savory blend of flavors with versatile ingredient options, making it adaptable to your taste preferences and satisfying for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef, chopped celery, chopped onion, and salt in a skillet.
- In a kettle, cook the shredded cabbage for 5 minutes until it starts boiling.
- Drain the cabbage and add the cooked meat mixture to the kettle.
- Stir in the minute rice and half of the grated cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for one hour until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, or use brown rice instead of minute rice for a healthier option. Incorporating spices such as garlic powder or paprika can enhance the dish. If you're short on time, pre-shredded cabbage can save you some prep work. Consider adding diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra veggies.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread to balance the richness. For a complete meal, serve with steamed vegetables or a light vinaigrette-dressed salad. Consider complementing it with a glass of white wine or iced tea for a refreshing beverage option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ann'S Cabbage Casserole contains roughly 430 calories, with 15g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), and calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1878mg per serving (82% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove from the fridge, let it come to room temperature, and bake as directed. This is a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can use a homemade version with sautéed mushrooms, cream, and broth. Alternatively, a can of cream of chicken soup or even a white sauce can work well, imparting a similar creamy texture to the casserole.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it fully, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, add about 30 minutes to the baking time, ensuring it's heated through to the center.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).