Cabbage Roll Casserole

Cabbage rolls are a classic comfort food loved by many, but they can be time-consuming to prepare. Enter the Cabbage Roll Casserole – a deconstructed version that captures all the flavors of the traditional dish with much less effort. In this article, we will guide you through making this mouthwatering Cabbage Roll Casserole that will impress your taste buds and make dinner preparation a breeze.

Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe

Enjoy the hearty and comforting flavors of cabbage rolls in a convenient casserole form. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

Below is a comprehensive table featuring all the ingredients you’ll need to make this delectable Cabbage Roll Casserole:

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coating of oil.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the core of the cabbage head and blanch the cabbage in the boiling water for about 3-4 minutes until the leaves are slightly softened. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef until browned. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent.
4. Stir in the cooked white rice, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes.
5. Layer half of the blanched cabbage leaves in the prepared baking dish, covering the bottom.
6. Spread half of the meat and tomato sauce mixture over the cabbage layer.
7. Repeat the process with the remaining cabbage leaves and meat mixture.
8. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve the Cabbage Roll Casserole with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added freshness and visual appeal.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you prefer a leaner meat option.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly if the casserole is chilled.
3. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, brown rice can be used for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that it may require slightly longer cooking time.
4. Can I add other vegetables to the casserole? Certainly! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or any other vegetables you prefer.
5. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven before serving.
6. Can I use different cheese for the topping? Of course! Cheddar or Gouda would also complement the flavors of this casserole.

With this easy-to-make Cabbage Roll Casserole, you can enjoy all the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the fuss. The layers of tender cabbage, savory meat, and rich tomato sauce, topped with melted cheese, will make this dish a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the hearty goodness of this delicious casserole!