Layer casserole pan with cabbage, but wait until this magic mixture comes on top
This Cabbage Roll Casserole delivers all the classic, comforting flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls without the tedious work of boiling, cooling, and rolling individual leaves. By layering the shredded cabbage with a savory seasoned beef and rice mixture, you allow the cabbage to steam and soften directly in the oven. The beef broth ensures the rice cooks perfectly while infusing every layer with a rich, savory depth.
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Cabbage Roll Casserole
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
| Ground beef | 2 lbs |
| Green cabbage, shredded | 1 head |
| Uncooked rice | 1 cup |
| Tomato sauce | 1 can (29 oz) |
| Beef broth | 3 cups |
| Onion, chopped | 1 |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves (or 1 tbsp) |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Coarse ground pepper (divided) | 1 teaspoon |
| Shredded mozzarella (optional) | For topping |
How To Make Cabbage Roll Casserole:
Step 1: Prep and Preheat: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for about 3 minutes until soft and translucent.
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Step 2: Brown the Beef: Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and ground beef to the skillet. Cook for about 8 minutes, breaking the meat up as it browns. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease from the pan.
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Step 3: Create the Sauce Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomato sauce, uncooked rice, salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of the coarse ground pepper. Stir well to ensure the rice is evenly distributed; this will be your “casserole mixture.”
Step 4: Layer the Casserole: In a large casserole dish, begin layering your ingredients. Start with 1/3 of the shredded cabbage, followed by 1/3 of the ground beef, and then 1/3 of the tomato-rice mixture. Repeat this process two more times until all ingredients are used.
Step 5: The Broth Soak: Slowly pour the 3 cups of beef broth over the entire casserole. The liquid is essential for cooking the rice and tenderizing the cabbage. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Step 6: Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour 15 minutes. If you are following the “cheesy twist” pro tip, you can sprinkle your mozzarella on top before it goes in!
Step 7: Finish and Serve: Carefully remove the foil, sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, and let it rest for a few minutes before digging in.
