Hearty Cabbage Casserole: A Comforting Classic
Cabbage casserole is a timeless comfort food that brings together tender cabbage, savory meat, and rich tomato flavors in a warm, cheesy bake. Whether you’re seeking a hearty weeknight dinner or a dish to share at gatherings, this casserole offers both simplicity and satisfaction.
🥬 Ingredients
1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup cooked rice
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
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👩🍳 Directions
1. Prepare the Oven and Cabbage
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the chopped cabbage and blanch for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Meat Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or turkey) with the diced onion and minced garlic until the meat is browned and the onions are tender. Drain any excess fat.
3. Combine Ingredients
To the skillet, add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cooked rice, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
4. Assemble the Casserole
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the blanched cabbage on the bottom. Spread the meat and rice mixture over the cabbage layer, then top with the remaining cabbage. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this hearty dish!
📝 Notes and Variations
Meat Options: Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef.
Rice Alternatives: Brown rice or quinoa can be substituted for white rice for added nutrition.
Cheese Choices: Feel free to use your favorite cheese blend; a mix of mozzarella and cheddar adds a nice flavor.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This cabbage casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside crusty bread or roasted potatoes.
🧊 Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer: This casserole freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions as needed.
Enjoy this comforting cabbage casserole as a satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family!