Cabbage Roll Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, rice, and cabbage baked to tender perfection. This comforting dish offers a flavorsome blend of savory beef, sweet cabbage, and rich tomato soup, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings with those who enjoy classic, home-style flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
- Add salt, pepper, chopped onion, chili powder, raw rice, tomato soup, and water to the beef.
- Cook gently for 2 or 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Place the chopped cabbage in a casserole dish.
- Pour the meat mixture over the cabbage without stirring.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 2 hours or longer if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute instead of beef. You can also swap out the rice for quinoa for added protein. If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust the chili powder to suit your spice preference, and feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole warm, garnished with fresh parsley or cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread, like a rye loaf dip, to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving with steamed vegetables or a light soup as a starter. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, until hot. This casserole also freezes well; just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage Roll Casserole contains roughly 306 calories, with 15g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value) and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1833mg per serving (80% 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 prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Assemble all the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 15-30 minutes to the cooking time as it will be starting from a colder temperature.
Can I use frozen cabbage for this recipe?
While fresh cabbage is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen cabbage if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the casserole, as excess moisture can affect the dish's consistency.
What can I substitute for tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup on hand, you can use a can of diced tomatoes with some added tomato paste to mimic the thickness and flavor. Alternatively, homemade tomato sauce can work as a substitute, enhancing the dish with fresh flavors.
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).