Cabbage Or Green Pepper Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender cabbage or peppers with seasoned ground beef, Spanish rice, and tomato soup, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix water and tomato soup; set aside.
- Brown ground chuck in a pan.
- Add Spanish rice to the browned meat and cook briefly.
- Layer cabbage or green peppers in a baking dish.
- Spoon the beef and rice mixture over the layered vegetables.
- Spread the soup and water mixture evenly over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 1/2 hours until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey instead of ground chuck. If you're short on time, pre-cooked Spanish rice can save you some effort. Experiment with different vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for added flavor. Ensure even cooking by covering the dish with foil during the first hour of baking, then uncovering it for the last 30 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty on its own, but pairs beautifully with a simple side salad like Low-Fat Red Potato And Broccoli Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a full meal, consider serving with crusty bread or cornbread. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving can also elevate the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F covered with foil for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use the microwave, heating in intervals to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage Or Green Pepper Casserole contains roughly 403 calories, with 25g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (50% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, use a plant-based meat substitute or omit meat entirely and add more vegetables and beans for protein.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don’t have tomato soup, you can use crushed tomatoes mixed with some Italian seasoning. Alternatively, a homemade sauce made from sautéed onions, garlic, and canned tomatoes will work well in this recipe.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F until heated through.
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).