Hearty Cabbage and Beef Casserole with Rice and Tomato Sauce
How about a comforting and hearty cabbage casserole recipe for family dinners or meal prep? This dish combines the savory goodness of ground beef with the nutritious crunch of cabbage, all brought together by a rich tomato sauce and tender rice. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal with a balanced blend of protein, vegetables, and grains, making it a wholesome option for any night of the week.
Cabbage casserole is a timeless dish that evokes the warmth and coziness of home-cooked meals. The ground beef provides a robust, meaty flavor that pairs beautifully with the mild sweetness of the cabbage. As it bakes, the rice absorbs the tomato sauce, becoming flavorful and perfectly cooked, while the cabbage softens just enough to meld seamlessly with the other ingredients.
This casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. It’s a convenient go-to for busy evenings with minimal prep time and ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Moreover, it’s a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to suit your taste or dietary preferences, giving you the freedom to create a perfect meal. Serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread, and you have a complete meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy!
What Is A Casserole?
A casserole is a dish cooked slowly in an oven, typically in a large, deep dish known as a casserole dish. The term “casserole” can refer to the cooking vessel and the food prepared. The dish usually consists of meat, vegetables, starches (like rice, pasta, or potatoes), and a binding agent like a sauce or broth.
Key Features of a Casserole:
- Ingredients: Casseroles often include a protein (such as chicken, beef, or beans), a vegetable component, and a starch. These ingredients are layered or mixed together.
- Sauce: A creamy or tomato-based sauce binds the ingredients together, adding moisture and flavor.
- Cooking Method: All components are assembled in the casserole dish and baked in the oven. The long, slow baking process allows the flavors to meld together.
- Topping: Many casseroles are topped with cheese, breadcrumbs, or other toppings that become golden and crispy during baking.
Casseroles are popular for their convenience, versatility, and ability to feed a crowd. They are often made in advance and can be easily reheated, making them ideal for busy households and meal prep. They can range from simple, everyday meals to elaborate, gourmet dishes. Examples include lasagna, shepherd’s pie, and green bean casserole.
Cabbage Roll Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 head cabbage chopped
- 1 cup rice uncooked
- 2 cups tomato sauce your choice
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 can dice tomatoes 14.5 ounces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese optional
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook Ground Beef
- Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and sauté until softened for about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Add Spices
- Add salt, black pepper, paprika, oregano, and basil to the beef mixture. Stir well to combine.
Combine Ingredients
- Add the beef mixture to the bowl with the cabbage and rice. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
Assemble the Casserole
- Spread half of the cabbage mixture in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour half of the tomato sauce over the mixture. Repeat this with the remaining cabbage mixture and top it with tomato sauce.
Bake
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and cook in the oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for 15 minutes until the rice is cooked and the cabbage is tender.
Add Cheese
- (Optional): If using, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Serve
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
