Paula'S Cabbage Casserole(Lazy Man'S Cabbage Rolls)
A hearty and comforting casserole combining seasoned ground meat, rice, and cabbage, topped with melted cheese—perfect for family dinners and cold evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground meat, chopped onion, and chopped celery in a skillet.
- Add uncooked rice, tomato sauce, ketchup, water, salt, and pepper to the cooked meat mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 30 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Transfer the cooked mixture to a casserole dish and sprinkle with grated cheese.
- Bake at 350°F until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding garlic or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground meat with turkey or a plant-based option for a healthier twist. Using brown rice instead of white rice will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a small amount of sour cream before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a side of Garlic Bread or a refreshing Frozen Alaskan Salad. You can also serve it alongside a crisp green salad for a lighter meal. For added flavor, top with fresh herbs or serve with a dollop of sour cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This casserole also freezes well; just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe dish. To reheat, bake covered at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Paula'S Cabbage Casserole(Lazy Man'S Cabbage Rolls) contains roughly 603 calories, with 20g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value), iron (29% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2257mg per serving (98% 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 without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through thoroughly.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for its meltability and flavor, but you can also use mozzarella for a gooey texture or a mix of both for added complexity. Experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicy kick.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them with the onion and celery before mixing in the other ingredients.
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).