Description
This Stuffed Cabbage Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that layers seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, and cooked rice, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Combining the savory flavors of tomato puree, Worcestershire sauce, and spices, it’s a satisfying casserole perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 tsp salt, divided
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 tsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
- 1/2 large green cabbage (or 1 small), cored and chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Sauté Onion: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and the black pepper.
- Cook Garlic and Beef: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute. Add the lean ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up while cooking.
- Add Tomato Ingredients: Mix in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, tomato puree, and diced tomatoes. Let the mixture simmer for 15 to 20 minutes to develop flavors.
- Combine Rice: Stir in the cooked white rice into the beef mixture and set aside.
- Sauté Cabbage: In a separate pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until softened. Season with the remaining 1 teaspoon salt.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread one-third of the beef mixture evenly on the bottom of the baking dish. Layer half of the cooked cabbage on top, followed by another third of the beef mixture, then the remaining cabbage. Top with the remaining beef mixture.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and for easier slicing.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when adding the paprika.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure Worcestershire sauce used is gluten-free.
- Cook rice ahead of time or use leftover rice to speed up preparation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
