Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole(Quick One-Dish Meal)
A hearty, flavorful casserole combining cabbage, ground meat, rice, and tomato soup, perfect for a quick, satisfying one-dish meal suitable for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned.
- Add chopped garlic and cook for another minute.
- Meanwhile, bring 1 cup of boiling water to a boil and cook the quick-cooking rice until tender.
- Shred the cabbage into small pieces.
- Combine cooked rice, ground meat, cabbage, tomato soup, water, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered for about 60 minutes until bubbly and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, you can substitute brown rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, replace the meat with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. To enhance flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or Italian seasoning. Also, ensure the cabbage is finely shredded for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This unstuffed cabbage casserole is hearty on its own but can be complemented with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a comforting touch, serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Hamburg And Bean Sprouts for a well-rounded dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until heated through, or bake in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until warm. This casserole also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole(Quick One-Dish Meal) contains roughly 271 calories, with 14g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1938mg per serving (84% 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 in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, simply remove the cover and bake according to the recipe instructions, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted using ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork. If you want a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or a meat substitute. Adjust cooking times as needed, especially for any raw meats that may require longer to brown before mixing with the other ingredients.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it is bubbly around the edges and the cabbage has softened. You can also use a fork to check the texture; it should be tender but not mushy. If you want to ensure everything is heated through, use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
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).