Easy Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe – Comfort Food Made Simple!

Table of Contents: Cabbage Roll Casserole

Cabbage Roll Casserole

Imagine all the cozy, hearty flavors of classic cabbage rolls—tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and tangy tomato sauce—but without the fuss of rolling each one! This Cabbage Roll Casserole is the ultimate comfort food hack, delivering all the deliciousness of the traditional dish in a simple, layered bake. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd, this casserole is a guaranteed hit.

Did you know that cabbage rolls date back centuries, with variations found in Eastern European, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisines? This deconstructed version keeps the soul of the dish intact while making it effortless to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is foolproof, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor.

If you love our Easy Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers Recipe – Healthy & Delicious Dinner Idea!, you’ll adore this dish—it’s just as comforting but with a unique twist. Ready to dig in? Let’s get cooking!

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Introduction

There’s something magical about a dish that wraps you in warmth with every bite. This Cabbage Roll Casserole does exactly that—combining tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and a rich tomato sauce in one irresistible bake. No tedious rolling, no complicated steps—just layers of comfort that come together in under an hour.

Growing up, my grandma spent hours crafting perfect cabbage rolls, but let’s be honest—who has that kind of time these days? That’s why I love this casserole version. It captures all the nostalgia of the original dish while keeping things simple, quick, and family-friendly. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies without complaints!

If you’re a fan of hearty, one-pan meals like our Taco Stuffed Zucchini Boats: The Best Low-Carb Taco Twist, this casserole will quickly become a staple in your rotation. So grab your skillet and let’s make dinner magic happen!

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What is Cabbage Roll Casserole?

Ever wondered why we call it Cabbage Roll Casserole when there’s no rolling involved? Well, think of it as the lazy (but genius) cousin of traditional cabbage rolls! Instead of stuffing and rolling each cabbage leaf, we layer all the same delicious ingredients—savory beef, fluffy rice, tangy tomato sauce—into a baking dish and let the oven do the work.

Some say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and this dish proves it. It’s hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to bring everyone to the table. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up that half-head of cabbage sitting in your fridge.

So, if you love the idea of cabbage rolls but dread the effort, this casserole is your new best friend. Ready to give it a try? Let’s dive into the recipe!

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Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Roll Casserole

1. All the Flavor, None of the Fuss – No tedious rolling means more time enjoying dinner! This casserole delivers the same comforting taste as traditional cabbage rolls with half the effort.

2. Budget-Friendly Comfort Food – Cabbage is one of the most affordable veggies, and ground beef stretches beautifully in this dish. It’s a wallet-friendly meal that tastes like a million bucks.

3. Customizable & Crowd-Pleasing – Swap the beef for turkey, add extra veggies, or spice it up with hot sauce—this recipe is flexible and always a hit.

If you enjoyed our Taco Pasta Recipe, you’ll love how versatile and satisfying this dish is. Give it a try tonight—your taste buds will thank you!

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How to Make Cabbage Roll Casserole

Quick Overview

This dish is easy, flavorful, and ready in under an hour. With simple layers of cabbage, beef, rice, and tomato sauce, it’s a no-fuss meal that tastes like you spent all day cooking.

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 40 mins | Total Time: 55 mins

Key Ingredients

– 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
– 1 small head cabbage, chopped
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt & pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown the beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, rice, and spices. Simmer for 5 mins.
4. Layer half the cabbage in a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top with half the beef mixture. Repeat layers.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 30 mins. Uncover, add cheese (if using), and bake 10 more mins.
6. Let rest 5 mins before serving.

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What to Serve With Cabbage Roll Casserole

This hearty casserole pairs perfectly with light, fresh sides to balance its richness. Try a crisp garden salad with lemon vinaigrette or steamed green beans for a pop of color. A slice of crusty bread is great for soaking up extra sauce, and a dollop of sour cream adds a creamy finish.

For a full comfort-food spread, serve it alongside our Mashed Potatoes or roasted carrots.

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Top Tips for Perfecting Cabbage Roll Casserole

– Use pre-cooked rice to save time (leftover rice works great!).
– Swap beef for turkey or lentils for a lighter twist.
– Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
– Let it rest before serving so flavors meld beautifully.

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Storing and Reheating Tips

– Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
– Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
– Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best texture, or microwave until heated through.

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People Also Ask: Cabbage Roll Casserole

What is a cabbage roll casserole?

It’s a deconstructed version of traditional cabbage rolls, layering all the same ingredients—cabbage, beef, rice, and tomato sauce—into a casserole for easier prep.

Is cabbage roll casserole healthier than traditional cabbage rolls?

Yes! Since it’s baked rather than simmered in extra oil or butter, it can be lighter. Using lean meat and brown rice boosts nutrition.

Can you freeze cabbage roll casserole?

Absolutely! Freeze before baking or after cooking. Thaw and reheat for a quick meal later.

What type of rice works best in cabbage roll casserole?

White or brown rice both work, but parboiled or jasmine rice holds texture best. Avoid instant rice, which can turn mushy.

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Conclusion

This Cabbage Roll Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—easy, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping, it’s a dish that never disappoints.

For more cozy recipes, check out our Beef Stew Seasoning Recipe for Rich Flavor or Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole – The Best Easy Comfort Meal. Now, go grab that cabbage and get cooking—dinner’s waiting!

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