Lazy Gal'S Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole combining ground beef, cabbage, rice, and tomato flavors, perfect for family dinners and easy to prepare ahead.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chopped cabbage in a greased casserole dish.
- Brown the lean ground beef with chopped onion in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Add salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder to the beef mixture.
- Stir in the can of tomato soup and water, mixing thoroughly.
- Add uncooked rice to the beef and soup mixture.
- Pour the mixture over the cabbage in the casserole dish and mix lightly.
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top.
- Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding some diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture. If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef to lighten the dish. Using brown rice instead of white rice will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Don't skip the cheese on top; it creates a delicious, melty crust that enhances the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Baked Onion Soup for a cozy dinner. For a touch of freshness, consider topping each serving with chopped parsley or green onions. This dish also works well as a potluck contribution or a comforting family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, covered to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lazy Gal'S Casserole contains roughly 371 calories, with 13g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (105% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2324mg per serving (101% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 15-20 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through properly. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup on hand, you can use crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes with some added seasoning for flavor. Mixing in a tablespoon of sugar can help balance the acidity. Alternatively, a homemade tomato sauce can also work well in this recipe.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cut into portions and wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
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).