Hamburger-Cabbage Casserole
A hearty casserole combining ground beef, cabbage, and rice in a savory spaghetti sauce, baked to perfection. This comforting dish offers rich flavors with a tender cabbage base, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. Easy to prepare and satisfying for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef in salad oil until lightly browned.
- Mix in chopped onion, salt, pepper, and raw rice; cook for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Remove from heat.
- Place chopped cabbage in a casserole dish.
- Pour meat mixture over the cabbage.
- Do not stir. Cover and bake at 325°F for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also substitute the raw rice with quinoa for a healthier twist. If you like a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. Experiment with different types of cabbage, such as Savoy or Napa, for unique textures and flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hamburger-Cabbage Casserole with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For a comforting twist, pair it with Stove Top Baked Beans. The casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top just before serving can enhance the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, ensuring they are covered to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger-Cabbage Casserole contains roughly 379 calories, with 7g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1821mg per serving (79% 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 cooked rice instead of raw rice in this recipe?
While raw rice absorbs moisture during cooking, using cooked rice will alter the texture. If you prefer, you can use cooked rice, but reduce the baking time to prevent the dish from becoming mushy. Add it during the last 30 minutes of baking for best results.
What can I substitute for spaghetti sauce?
If you don’t have spaghetti sauce on hand, you can use crushed tomatoes mixed with Italian seasoning as a substitute. Alternatively, a homemade tomato sauce made with garlic, onion, and herbs would work well. This allows you to control the flavor profile and spice level.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble the layers in the casserole dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven, or adjust the baking time to ensure it's 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).