Cabbage And Beef Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender cabbage, savory ground beef, tomato flavors, and rice, baked to perfection. Ideal for comforting family dinners and cold-weather meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop one small head of cabbage into the bottom of a 3-quart or larger casserole dish.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef; add diced onion and uncooked rice.
- Spoon the cooked beef mixture over the chopped cabbage in the casserole dish.
- In the same skillet with beef drippings, add the tomato soup and water.
- Stir in tomato paste and brown sugar, then pour this mixture over the meat and cabbage in the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring once during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or spices like paprika to the beef mixture. If you want a healthier option, substitute ground turkey for beef. You can also use quinoa instead of rice for added nutrition. Adjust the brown sugar based on your sweetness preference and consider adding some chopped bell peppers for extra color and taste. This dish is a great alternative to similar recipes like Ground Beef-Cabbage Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners and is reminiscent of comforting American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage And Beef Casserole contains roughly 387 calories, with 4g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 4g fat.
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 use a different type of meat in this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a lighter option. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as needed to thoroughly cook the meat. Ground beef is traditional, but many variations exist that can cater to different dietary needs.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a meat substitute like textured vegetable protein. You can also add extra vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots, to enhance the flavor and texture while keeping it hearty and satisfying.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure it is heated thoroughly. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or potlucks.
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).