Top Of The Stove Cabbage Casserole
A hearty stovetop cabbage casserole combining ground meat, rice, and vegetables, bursting with savory flavors. Perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Season the ground meat well and brown it in a skillet with chopped onions, bell peppers, and celery.
- Add the canned tomato sauce, whole tomatoes, Ro-Tel tomatoes, rice, and shredded cabbage to the meat mixture.
- Add extra seasoning as rice and cabbage will absorb flavors.
- Pour in 5 cups of water and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low heat until the cabbage and rice are tender, about 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of ground meats, such as beef and pork. You can substitute brown rice for white rice for a nuttier taste and more fiber. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a meat substitute. Enhance the dish with spices like paprika or cumin to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a fun twist, try serving it with Vicky'S Cappuccino Mix for a unique dessert option afterward.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Top Of The Stove Cabbage Casserole contains roughly 391 calories, with 11g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 559mg per serving (24% 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, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it on the stove to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of cabbage?
If you're not a fan of cabbage, you can substitute it with kale or spinach for a different texture and flavor. Just be aware that the cooking time may be shorter with these greens, so keep an eye on them while cooking.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture for some heat. Additionally, using spicy Ro-Tel tomatoes will enhance the spiciness without overwhelming the other flavors.
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).