Quick 'N Easy Cabbage Casserole
A hearty, flavorful cabbage casserole with ground beef and rice, perfect for quick weeknight dinners and satisfying the whole family with savory, comforting tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a Dutch oven or large pan.
- Add chopped celery, onion, cabbage, and green pepper; stir in raw rice.
- Add tomato paste, water, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
- Heat the mixture to boiling.
- Cover and reduce heat to simmer for 25 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker version, you can use pre-cooked rice. Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the flavor. For an extra kick, consider mixing in some crushed red pepper flakes. If you're short on time, try using a microwave-safe dish, similar to the Marvelous Microwave Meat Loaf recipe for faster cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with the Barbecue Meatballs And Sauce for a diverse spread. For a comforting touch, consider topping it with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cabbage casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave it in a covered dish until heated through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, ensuring it warms evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick 'N Easy Cabbage Casserole contains roughly 554 calories, with 29g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value), protein (58% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1106mg per serving (48% 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. Simply assemble all the ingredients in the Dutch oven, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, bring it to room temperature before heating it on the stove or in the oven.
Can I freeze this cabbage casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake until heated through.
What can I add to make it more nutritious?
You can add various vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or spinach to boost the nutritional value. Incorporating beans can also make it heartier and increase fiber content. Consider using brown rice instead of white for added health benefits.
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).