Lazy Cabbage Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole combining cabbage, rice, and seasoned meat in a savory tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the cabbage and place it in a greased baking dish.
- Brown the chopped meat and chopped onions in a skillet.
- Stir in the uncooked rice with the meat and onions.
- Pour the meat mixture over the cabbage in the baking dish.
- Mix the tomato soup with 1/2 cup water and pour it over the casserole.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier casserole, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots; they complement the cabbage well. If you're looking for a healthier twist, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also substitute brown rice for white rice for added fiber. If you want a bit of spice, add some chili powder or paprika.
Serving Suggestions
This Lazy Cabbage Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a complete meal, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. You can also top it with shredded cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking for added flavor and creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating. Ensure it's heated to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lazy Cabbage Casserole contains roughly 453 calories, with 22g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value), iron (39% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 718mg per serving (31% 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 frozen cabbage for this recipe?
While fresh cabbage is preferred for texture, you can use frozen cabbage if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to prevent excess moisture in the casserole. Adjust the baking time if needed, as frozen ingredients may require longer to heat through.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, replace the chopped meat with plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils. You can also add additional vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for more flavor and texture. Ensure the tomato soup is vegetarian-friendly, and consider using vegetable broth instead of water.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly if it's cold from the fridge.
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).