Martha'S Cabbage Roll Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, sausage, rice, and tender cabbage, baked with flavorful tomato sauce—perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef, sausage, chopped onion, salt, and chopped peppers until browned.
- Add chili powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, canned tomatoes, rice, and half of the tomato sauce to the meat mixture. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Chop the head of cabbage and cook it in a separate pan until tender.
- Layer the cooked cabbage in a casserole dish, then add the meat and rice mixture on top, ending with the remaining meat mixture.
- Pour the remaining half of the tomato sauce over the top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for the beef and sausage. You can also use brown rice instead of white for added nutrition, but adjust the cooking time. If you want extra flavor, consider adding some garlic or Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. This dish is versatile; feel free to incorporate other vegetables like carrots or zucchini.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. It pairs beautifully with Velveeta Salsa Mac 'N Cheese for a comforting meal. For added freshness, consider garnishing with chopped parsley or sour cream on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Martha'S Cabbage Roll Casserole contains roughly 529 calories, with 7g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1615mg per serving (70% 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 it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of cabbage?
If you're not a fan of cabbage, you can substitute it with kale or spinach for a different flavor and texture. Alternatively, consider using cooked collard greens, which can also bring a unique twist to the dish while providing a similar structure.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Absolutely! You can replace the meat with a mix of lentils, mushrooms, and diced vegetables to maintain a hearty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of the meat juices for added flavor, and consider incorporating some beans for protein.
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).