There’s something incredibly comforting about cabbage casserole recipes that just warms the soul. I’ve always loved how this dish brings together simple ingredients to create a hearty meal that feels like a big hug. I still remember the first time I made this for my family; the aroma filled the kitchen, and everyone gathered around the table with eager smiles. It’s not just delicious; it’s a reminder of home cooked meals that bring us together. Trust me, once you dive into this cabbage casserole, you’ll find it’s the perfect blend of flavors that makes any dinner feel special!
Ingredients List
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup rice, uncooked
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup shredded cheese
How to Prepare Cabbage Casserole Recipes
Preheat and Brown
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key, folks! While that’s warming up, grab a large skillet and brown 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat. Toss in 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves as the beef cooks. The magic happens here—the browning adds so much flavor, creating a savory base for your casserole. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef is no longer pink and the onions are soft and translucent.
Combine Ingredients
Now, it’s time to add that star ingredient—your chopped cabbage! Stir it in and let it cook for about 5 minutes until it starts to soften. Next, mix in a 14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes, 1 cup of uncooked rice, 2 cups of beef broth, and season with 1 teaspoon each of salt, pepper, and paprika. Give everything a good stir and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. You want the cabbage to be tender but not mushy, so keep an eye on it!
Transfer and Bake
Once your mixture is all combined and fragrant, carefully transfer it to a baking dish. Make sure to spread it out evenly. Cover the dish with foil—this helps everything steam and cook thoroughly. Pop it in the oven and let it bake for 45 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully while the rice cooks to perfection.
Add Cheese and Finish Baking
After 45 minutes, it’s time to shine! Remove the foil and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top. Oh, that melty goodness! Bake it uncovered for another 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Just imagine that aroma filling your kitchen—pure bliss!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Hearty, satisfying flavors that warm you from the inside out.
- Versatile—feel free to swap in your favorite ground meat or even lentils for a vegetarian twist!
- Gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, so you can enjoy it again!
- It’s a one-dish wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to relax!
Tips for Success
To make your cabbage casserole shine, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t skimp on browning the beef and onions; it really amps up the flavor! For a twist, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, add some chopped peppers or carrots for extra veggies. Remember, the cooking times are crucial—keep an eye on the rice; it should be tender but not mushy. And don’t forget, this dish freezes beautifully! So, make a double batch and save some for later. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover cabbage casserole is a breeze! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days—perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and pop them into a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal—just cover with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Enjoy every bite without any waste!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly if needed.
Is this cabbage casserole recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure the beef broth and any other added ingredients are gluten-free. Always check labels to be safe!
Can I make it ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the casserole and store it in the fridge before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and bake it when you’re ready to enjoy it.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
Your casserole is done when the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden, and the rice is tender. If you’re unsure, you can always check the rice’s texture!
What can I serve with cabbage casserole?
This dish is hearty on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these are just estimates. Each serving of this delicious cabbage casserole contains approximately 350 calories, 15g of fat, 20g of protein, and 35g of carbohydrates. Enjoy knowing you’re savoring a hearty meal!
For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes section!
For a great side dish, consider making honey-glazed carrots to complement your meal.
For more information on the health benefits of cabbage, you can visit Healthline.
Print
Cabbage Casserole Recipes: 7 Comforting Flavors to Savor
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty cabbage casserole packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup rice, uncooked
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with onion and garlic.
- Add chopped cabbage and cook until slightly tender.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, rice, beef broth, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Notes
- Use any ground meat you prefer.
- Vegetarian option: substitute meat with lentils.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: cabbage casserole recipes