Poor Man'S Stuffed Cabbage
A hearty, budget-friendly casserole combining seasoned ground beef, rice, and cabbage in a savory tomato sauce, perfect for family meals and comfort food enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chopped onion, ground beef, salt, pepper, and uncooked rice in a skillet.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
- In a greased casserole dish, layer shredded cabbage and the meat mixture until all ingredients are used.
- Combine the tomato sauce and water.
- Pour the tomato mixture over the layered casserole.
- Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic with the onions and beef. If you're out of Parmesan, any hard cheese can work as a substitute. To make it even heartier, feel free to add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots into the meat mixture. This dish is also great for using up leftover cabbage from other meals. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rice can speed up the process.
Serving Suggestions
This Poor Man's Stuffed Cabbage pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it with a side of mashed potatoes or a tangy coleslaw for extra crunch. For a fun twist, you can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream on top. This comforting dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven helps maintain the texture of the cabbage and meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Poor Man'S Stuffed Cabbage contains roughly 465 calories, with 18g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2573mg per serving (112% 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 use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter version. Each will bring its own flavor, so adjust seasoning as needed. If using a leaner meat, consider adding a bit of oil to keep the mixture moist.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! This Poor Man's Stuffed Cabbage freezes well. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by using lentils or quinoa in place of the ground beef. Just cook the lentils until tender and mix them with the rice and seasonings. You can also add more vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
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).