Cabbage, Rice And Hamburger Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender cabbage, savory hamburger, and flavorful tomato sauce, topped with cheese—perfect for comforting family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place shredded cabbage in a 2-quart casserole dish sprayed with Pam.
- Sprinkle the uncooked instant rice evenly over the cabbage.
- Brown and separate the hamburger in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion, tomato sauce, tomato soup, water, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet with hamburger; simmer for a few minutes.
- Pour the meat mixture over the rice and cabbage in the casserole dish.
- Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
- Sprinkle shredded Colby cheese on top before serving; add crushed chips if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger. You can also swap in brown rice for a healthier option, but adjust the water and cooking time accordingly. If you prefer a bit of spice, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting twist, serve with crusty bread or biscuits. A dollop of sour cream on top can enhance the flavors, making it a satisfying dish for family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave until warmed through, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. If the casserole seems dry, add a splash of water or broth before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage, Rice And Hamburger Casserole contains roughly 253 calories, with 6g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1674mg per serving (73% 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 a day in advance. Assemble it as instructed, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven, and adjust the baking time if necessary.
What can I substitute for the cabbage?
If you're not a fan of cabbage, you can use chopped kale or spinach as a substitute. Both options provide a similar texture and will cook down nicely. Alternatively, you could use a mix of frozen vegetables for added nutrition and convenience.
Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before baking it. Just assemble it, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, increase the baking time to about 50-60 minutes, covered, then remove the cover and bake until bubbly.
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).