Lazy Cabbage Rolls
Lazy Cabbage Rolls offer a hearty, comforting dish with tender cabbage, savory meat, and rice, baked in a flavorful tomato soup sauce—perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter a 2 or 3-quart casserole dish.
- Spread half of the shredded cabbage in the bottom of the casserole.
- Saute chopped onion in a small amount of fat until soft but not brown.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned lightly. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Mix in cooked rice with the meat mixture.
- Spread the meat mixture over the cabbage in the casserole.
- Top with remaining cabbage, then pour the can of tomato soup over the top.
- Bake for 1 hour at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked or frozen cabbage can be used. For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of tomato soup. This dish can also be made with other meats or grains, such as turkey or quinoa, for variety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lazy Cabbage Rolls with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving can enhance the flavors. This dish pairs beautifully with Mini-Mistakes for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or place the casserole back in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lazy Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 406 calories, with 19g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (86% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (57% of the Daily Value), and protein (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2510mg per serving (109% 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 meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as some meats may cook faster than others.
What type of rice is best for this dish?
You can use any cooked rice, but long-grain white or brown rice works best for texture. If you're looking for a healthier option, quinoa or cauliflower rice can also be used as a substitute.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Lazy Cabbage Rolls a day in advance. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking 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).