Quick Stuffed Cabbage
A hearty and flavorful dish featuring seasoned ground beef, rice, and cabbage baked with a savory tomato and barbecue sauce mixture, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Stir in raw rice, salt, and pepper into the meat mixture.
- Chop the cabbage into small pieces.
- Layer the chopped cabbage in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the meat mixture over the cabbage layer.
- In a small pan, beat together water, tomato soup, and barbecue sauce, then pour over the assembled casserole.
- Bake until cooked through and bubbly, approximately 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker prep time, consider using pre-cooked rice or leftover rice from a previous meal. If you're short on ground beef, you can substitute with ground turkey or even mixed beans for a vegetarian option. To enhance flavor, add a teaspoon of garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture. This dish is a great make-ahead meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
Serving Suggestions
This Quick Stuffed Cabbage pairs nicely with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier side, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes. For added freshness, top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It's a comforting dish that also makes for great leftovers, perfect for lunches or quick dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Stuffed Cabbage contains roughly 380 calories, with 14g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1545mg per serving (67% 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?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a vegetarian option, mix in some lentils or beans instead of meat for a hearty alternative.
How do I know when the stuffed cabbage is done cooking?
The stuffed cabbage is done when the meat is fully cooked and the rice is tender. Look for a bubbling sauce and ensure that the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F for ground beef. A cooking time of around 60 minutes should achieve this, but always check for doneness.
Can I freeze the stuffed cabbage for later?
Yes, this dish freezes well! After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake until heated through, or microwave individual portions directly from frozen.
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).