Lazy Day Cabbage Rolls
Lazy Day Cabbage Rolls offer a comforting, hearty meal with savory beef, tender cabbage, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish combines simple ingredients into a satisfying casserole with rich, tangy flavors and a comforting texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat and remove from heat.
- Add tomato paste, stewed tomatoes, water, tomato soup, and uncooked rice to the meat mixture.
- Mix well until combined.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Cover with a lid or foil and bake at 350°F for about 60 minutes.
- Serve hot, divided into six portions.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and pork. If you want a healthier option, substitute quinoa or cauliflower rice for the uncooked rice. You can also add spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning to elevate the taste. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rice can be used to reduce cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Lazy Day Cabbage Rolls hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables or a side of Reuben Sauerkraut Spread to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lazy Day Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 444 calories, with 13g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (70% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 752mg per serving (33% 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 freeze the Lazy Day Cabbage Rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a mixture of beans and vegetables. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done?
The dish is done when the rice is fully cooked and the mixture is bubbling. If using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 160°F for safety. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
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).