Easy Beef Cabbage Casserole
A hearty and comforting beef and cabbage casserole with savory tomato flavor, perfect for weeknight dinners and family gatherings, offering a delightful mix of textures and tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the cabbage and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the chopped cabbage in a greased 9x13 baking dish.
- Brown the ground beef with chopped onion, then drain the excess fat.
- Stir in uncooked rice into the beef and onion mixture.
- Spread the meat and rice mixture over the cabbage in the baking dish.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the diluted tomato soup over the top of the casserole.
- Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef to lighten the dish. If you prefer a vegetarian option, use lentils or a mix of beans instead of meat. Adding some grated cheese on top before baking can enhance the flavor. Be sure to season the cabbage well, as it absorbs flavors during cooking. This casserole can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Beef Cabbage Casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a more complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. You could also serve it with a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. Ensure the casserole is heated evenly to enjoy its full flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Beef Cabbage Casserole contains roughly 462 calories, with 17g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 828mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
* % 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 easily substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version of this casserole. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly if using a different type of meat.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming directly from the fridge.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding spices such as garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture for an extra flavor boost. You could also mix in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
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).