Lazy Mary Stuffed Cabbage
Lazy Mary Stuffed Cabbage combines tender cabbage leaves with savory ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce for a hearty, comforting meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef; set aside.
- Chop the cabbage leaves into pieces less than 1 1/2 inches square.
- Place the chopped cabbage into a greased roasting pan.
- Layer the cabbage in the pan.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper on top of the cabbage.
- Place the cooked ground beef on top of the layered cabbage.
- Pour the tomato sauce over the layer.
- Pour the tomato soup and 10 1/2 ounces of water over the layers.
- Dice the onion and layer it on top.
- Sprinkle the uncooked rice over the surface.
- Cover and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 1 1/2 hours.
- Stir often while baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding chopped garlic or herbs like thyme and oregano to the ground beef before browning. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rice can be substituted for uncooked rice. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. This recipe can easily be modified with different vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lazy Mary Stuffed Cabbage with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad to balance the meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top can enhance the dish's flavors. This dish pairs beautifully with Betty'S Hamburger Pie for a comforting dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until hot, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lazy Mary Stuffed Cabbage contains roughly 358 calories, with 14g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron.
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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative like lentils for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, especially if using pre-cooked meats.
How do I prevent the cabbage from being tough?
To ensure the cabbage is tender, you can blanch the leaves in boiling water for a few minutes before chopping. This helps soften them and makes them easier to layer in the roasting pan.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the layers and assemble the dish a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).