Easy Pigs In Blanket
A hearty, comforting dish featuring seasoned ground beef and rice layered with cabbage, baked in a flavorful tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners and cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the small head of cabbage into medium pieces.
- Spread the chopped cabbage evenly into the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet, then drain off the excess fat.
- Stir in the raw rice, salt, and pepper into the cooked beef and onion mixture.
- Spoon the beef mixture over the cabbage in the pan.
- Pour the tomato soup and water over the layered ingredients.
- Sprinkle grated Italian cheese on top.
- Bake in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 60 minutes or until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to lighten the dish. If you don’t have raw rice, consider using pre-cooked rice or quinoa to save time, adjusting the liquid accordingly. Adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the flavor profile, making it reminiscent of other comforting American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish alongside a simple green salad or crusty bread to balance the flavors. It pairs beautifully with other comforting casseroles like Heavenly Hamburger Bake or Tangy Beef Stew, making it a perfect centerpiece for a family meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out, heating for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through. Microwave portions can also be reheated for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Pigs In Blanket contains roughly 580 calories, with 33g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), protein (65% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1692mg per serving (74% 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 use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While grated Italian cheese adds a nice flavor, you can substitute it with shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or even a dairy-free alternative if you prefer. Each variety will give the dish a different taste and texture, allowing for personal preference in flavor.
What can I serve with Pigs In Blanket?
This dish is quite filling on its own, but you can enhance the meal with sides like steamed vegetables, garlic bread, or a light coleslaw. These additions will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole, making it a well-rounded dinner option.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or a mixture of lentils and beans for protein. You can also enhance the flavor with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers, ensuring the dish remains hearty and satisfying without meat.
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).