Spicy Cabbage Casserole
A hearty, spicy casserole combining ground beef, cabbage, tomatoes, and rice, topped with melted cheese—perfect for a flavorful family dinner or comfort food craving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a deep heavy skillet over moderately high heat, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped bell pepper, oregano, salt, and pepper, stirring constantly until the beef is browned.
- Add the chopped Ro-Tel tomatoes, tomato sauce, and uncooked rice to the skillet and mix thoroughly.
- In a buttered 9 x 13-inch casserole dish, arrange layers of the meat mixture, shredded cabbage, and grated American cheese.
- Cover the casserole and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/2 to 2 hours until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef. You can also substitute the American cheese with cheddar for a sharper taste. If you prefer a milder dish, use diced tomatoes without green chilies instead of Ro-Tel. Ensure the rice is properly cooked by checking it during the last half hour of baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spicy Cabbage Casserole with a side salad, such as a refreshing Steak And Parmesan Salad, to balance the richness of the dish. It can also be paired with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal. For a touch of freshness, offer some sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Cabbage Casserole contains roughly 385 calories, with 17g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2490mg per serving (108% 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 this casserole a day in advance. Assemble the layers in the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a meat substitute like lentils or a plant-based ground meat. You can also add more vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini to enhance the texture and flavor while keeping it vegetarian.
What can I use instead of cabbage?
If cabbage isn't available, you can use kale or Swiss chard as a substitute. Both greens will provide a similar texture and can withstand the long cooking time. Alternatively, you could use cooked quinoa for a different twist.
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).