Lazy (Not) Stuffed Cabbage
A hearty, comforting casserole with savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and flavorful tomato and onion soup, perfect for family dinners and cold evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place shredded cabbage in a large baking dish.
- Cook ground beef and dry onion soup in a large skillet over medium heat until well browned.
- Stir in the tomato soup, canned tomatoes, rice, and water.
- Pour the mixture over the cabbage in the baking dish.
- Cover and bake in a 325°F oven for 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Optionally, prepare in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker version, use pre-cooked rice or leftover rice to reduce cooking time. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to enhance flavor and nutrition, similar to dishes found in Best Ever Venison.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley. For a comforting family-style dinner, consider serving it alongside Super Simple Vegetable Soup to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a covered skillet over low heat until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lazy (Not) Stuffed Cabbage contains roughly 415 calories, with 17g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), and protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1296mg per serving (56% 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 prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day ahead. Simply assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, allowing a few extra minutes for cooking if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
If you're looking for a lighter or different flavor, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a mixture of ground pork and beef. For a vegetarian option, try using cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute that mimics the texture of ground beef.
How do I know when it's done cooking?
The dish is done when the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, and the flavors are well combined. You can check by tasting the rice; it should be soft yet slightly firm. Stir occasionally during baking to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking.
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).