If you’ve ever loved the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but want a simpler, no-fuss version, this Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe is just what your kitchen needs. It captures all that cozy goodness in an effortless, layered bake, combining savory ground beef, tender cabbage, tangy tomato sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese. Every bite bursts with warmth and homestyle charm, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish that feels like an affectionate hug from your favorite comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe shines because of its straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each add their own magic, creating a harmonious blend of flavors, textures, and colors you’ll adore.
- Ground beef (1 pound): The hearty protein that forms the flavorful base of the casserole and keeps it satisfying.
- Small onion, chopped (1): Adds sweetness and depth to the savory meat mixture.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Infuses a fragrant, savory punch enhancing every layer.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances and brightens the flavors in the dish.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds just enough heat to lift the taste without overwhelming.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Provides a subtle smokiness and beautiful warm color.
- Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Thickens the sauce while concentrating that rich tomato flavor.
- Tomato sauce (1 can, 15 oz): Brings acidity and moisture that keeps the casserole juicy and fresh tasting.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): Offers texture and bursts of tomato goodness throughout.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Gives a savory umami boost that elevates the meat sauce deeply.
- Cooked white rice (3 cups): Adds a soft, fluffy element that soaks up all the saucy flavor.
- Chopped green cabbage (4 cups): The star vegetable that lends a tender, slightly sweet crunch as it bakes.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully on top for that irresistible cheesy crust.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used for sautéing, it adds richness and helps build the foundational flavors.
How to Make Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions become soft and translucent. This initial layer of flavor is critical because those caramelized onions and garlic make the sauce irresistibly savory. Once browned, stir in salt, pepper, and paprika to season the meat perfectly and sprinkle in the tomato paste to build richness.
Step 2: Build the Tomato Base
Next, pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, then add that secret weapon: Worcestershire sauce. Simmer the mixture for about 5 minutes to meld those flavors together into a thick, bubbly sauce that’s packed with depth. This step transforms simple ingredients into a luscious, comforting sauce—the heart of your entire casserole.
Step 3: Combine Rice with Meat Sauce
In a large bowl, mix the cooked white rice with your robust meat sauce until they’re evenly combined. This not only adds bulk to the dish but lets every bite be a perfect balance of tender rice soaking up the meaty, tangy tomato flavors—pretty much what dreams are made of.
Step 4: Layer Your Casserole
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it so the casserole doesn’t stick. Begin by spreading half of the chopped cabbage evenly across the bottom—this layer will steam and soften during baking, creating a fresh, slightly crunchy base. Then spoon in your rice and meat mixture, spreading it until smooth. Finally, top with the remaining cabbage, sealing in all that goodness and setting the stage for layers of flavor to become one.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes. This gentle heat steams the cabbage and melds all the ingredients into one delicious, comforting casserole. After 45 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes. Once the cheese has melted and turned beautifully bubbly and golden, your casserole is ready to come out of the oven. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to help everything set nicely.
How to Serve Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe from lovely to spectacular. A dollop of sour cream on top adds creamy tang that pairs beautifully with the tomato and beef. Fresh parsley or chopped chives sprinkled over the cheese offer a burst of color and freshness. For a little kick, drizzle some hot sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes—it’s all about customizing this dish to your flavor preferences!
Side Dishes
Since this casserole is a hearty, all-in-one meal, lighter sides complement it best. A crisp green salad with a bright vinaigrette cuts through the richness wonderfully, while steamed green beans or roasted carrots provide added texture and color. If you want to go traditional, serve some crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe even more eye-catching by serving it in individual ramekins instead of a big dish for a personal touch. You can also layer it in a deep-dish pie pan for a neater presentation. Another fun idea is to top each serving with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a swirl of sour cream just before plating to add visual appeal and a boost of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftovers tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making your next serving even better. Reheat gently to preserve the texture of the cabbage and keep that cheese from drying out.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 to 30 minutes. This method preserves the casserole’s moisture and melts the cheese back to its gooey goodness. Alternatively, microwave servings individually for convenience, though the oven is best for texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground pork or turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground pork adds extra richness, while turkey offers a leaner alternative. Just adjust cooking times if needed and season well since turkey is milder in flavor.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that your tomato sauce and Worcestershire sauce do not contain gluten. Always double-check labels to be safe.
Can I substitute the white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice?
You can! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber but might need a bit more liquid and longer cooking. Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb option but holds less moisture, so you might want to add a splash of broth to keep the casserole moist.
How can I add more vegetables to this casserole?
Feel free to mix in shredded carrots, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms into the meat sauce for extra nutrition and color. Just sauté them with the onions for best results.
Can I prepare this casserole vegan or vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Use vegan cheese or skip it altogether, and make sure to choose vegan Worcestershire sauce or omit it.
Final Thoughts
This Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe is one of those treasures that combines simplicity, heartiness, and incredible flavor in one no-fuss dish. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, or just craving a cozy meal that feels like homemade love, this casserole delivers every time. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation—you won’t regret making this savory, comforting classic your own.
Print
Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Eastern European, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cabbage Roll Casserole is a delicious and comforting twist on traditional stuffed cabbage rolls, featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, rice, and cabbage baked to perfection and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. This easy-to-make casserole offers all the flavors of classic Eastern European cabbage rolls without the hassle of rolling, making it a satisfying main course perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Other Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 4 cups chopped green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Cook Meat: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic together until the beef is browned and the onions become soft, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Season and Simmer Sauce: Stir in salt, black pepper, paprika, and tomato paste to the meat mixture. Then add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Combine Rice and Meat Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked white rice with the meat sauce mixture, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Assemble Casserole: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the chopped green cabbage evenly over the bottom of the dish. Next, layer the rice and meat mixture on top of the cabbage, then cover with the remaining chopped cabbage.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, allowing the cabbage to soften and flavors to meld.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to enhance flavor and ease portioning.
Notes
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking, making it perfect for busy schedules.
- For added depth of flavor, try using a mixture of ground beef and ground pork in the meat layer.
- Serve with sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra richness and a spicy kick if desired.
