Lazy Cabbage Roll
A comforting, easy-to-make casserole combining ground beef, cabbage, rice, and tomato juice, perfect for weeknight dinners and family gatherings with hearty, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix browned and drained ground beef, cooked cabbage, cooked rice, and dry onion in a bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Pour tomato juice evenly over the mixture.
- Bake uncovered for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey instead of beef. If you don't have long grain rice, substituting with quinoa or couscous can work well too. You can also add spices like garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rice can save you some cooking steps. This dish is great for meal prep and can feed a crowd, similar to other hearty American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Lazy Cabbage Roll pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. You might also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for added comfort. A dollop of sour cream on top can enhance the flavors. Explore more hearty options like Macaroni Meat Casserole for similar satisfying meals.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For reheating, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions. Cover with a damp paper towel when microwaving to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lazy Cabbage Roll contains roughly 329 calories, with 16g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. At about 329 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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?
Yes, frozen cabbage can be used, but it's best to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dish. If using fresh cabbage, blanch the leaves briefly to make them easier to roll, though this recipe simplifies that step by mixing everything together.
What can I substitute for tomato juice?
If you don't have tomato juice, you can use crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce diluted with a bit of water. Adding some herbs like oregano or basil can help replicate the flavor of tomato juice and enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just pour the tomato juice on top right before baking. This makes it a convenient option for a busy weeknight or for entertaining guests, similar to other easy beef recipes.
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).