Indulge in the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls with a fraction of the effort with our Easy and Cheesy Cabbage Roll Casserole. This delightful dish layers tender sautéed cabbage, seasoned beef with rice in a rich tomato sauce, and a luscious blend of Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar cheeses, all packed into one mouthwatering casserole.
Simplified Cabbage Roll Casserole
If you’ve ever savored the warmth of homemade cabbage rolls paired with creamy mashed potatoes, you’ll appreciate the convenience of our Cheesy Cabbage Roll Casserole. Just like the classic dish from Grandma’s kitchen, this recipe brings together all the flavors you love without the hassle of rolling each one by hand.
The Ingredients
Prepare for a culinary journey with these essential ingredients:
Lean ground beef for hearty flavor without excess fat.
Fresh onion and garlic for aromatic depth.
Paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
Brown sugar to balance the acidity of the tomato sauce.
Tomato sauce and low-sodium beef broth for a robust base.
Uncooked long-grain white rice for texture and substance.
Olive oil for sautéing the cabbage to perfection.
Green cabbage is chopped and tenderized to complement the beef.
Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, shredded for irresistible gooeyness.
How to Prepare the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F and coat a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Brown the ground beef with onion until fully cooked, then add garlic for a fragrant touch. Drain any excess fat.
Season the beef mixture with paprika, onion powder, cayenne (if using), brown sugar, tomato sauce, beef broth, and uncooked rice. Simmer until the rice is tender.
Sauté the cabbage in olive oil until slightly softened.
Layer half of the cabbage in the casserole dish, followed by half of the beef and rice mixture, and half of the shredded cheeses.
Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage, beef and rice mixture, and cheese.
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Variations to Explore
Substitute ground turkey for a leaner alternative.
Experiment with different cheese varieties like mozzarella for a unique twist.
Opt for brown rice for added fiber and nuttiness, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Storing Leftovers
Keep any remaining casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until piping hot, savoring each cheesy, comforting bite with every spoonful.
With our Easy and Cheesy Cabbage Roll Casserole, you can enjoy the heartwarming flavors of a beloved classic with a fraction of the effort. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this dish promises to delight taste buds and bring smiles all around.
Variations:
Ground Turkey: Substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a lighter option. It works just as well and adds a different flavor profile to the dish.
Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Mozzarella, provolone, or even a blend of cheeses can be used to suit your taste preferences.
Rice Variations: While white rice is traditional, you can use brown rice for added fiber and nutrients. Keep in mind that brown rice may require a slightly longer cooking time.
Storage and Reheating:
Storage: Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Use an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through. You can also reheat larger portions in the oven at 350°F until warmed.
Ingredients:
1 pound lean ground beef
1 medium onion, peeled and chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 15-ounce can of tomato sauce
1 14.5-ounce can low-sodium beef broth
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 1/2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
Prepare Beef Mixture: In a large pot, crumble the ground beef and add the chopped onion. Cook over medium heat until the beef is fully browned. Reduce the heat to low, then add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring often. Drain any excess fat.
Add Seasonings and Rice: Stir in the paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), brown sugar, tomato sauce, beef broth, and uncooked rice. Bring the mixture to a slow boil, then cover with a lid and simmer for 20 minutes until the rice is tender.
Saute Cabbage: Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until slightly tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Layer Casserole: Spread half of the cooked cabbage over the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Top with half of the beef and rice mixture, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage, beef, and rice mixture, and shredded cheese.
Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Once baked, allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Slice into portions and enjoy!
This Cheesy Cabbage Roll Casserole offers all the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish. Serve it up for a cozy family dinner or potluck gathering, and watch it disappear in no time!
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this Cheesy Cabbage Roll Casserole recipe is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. With layers of tender sautéed cabbage, flavorful beef, and rice mixture, and gooey melted cheese, it captures all the essence of traditional cabbage rolls in a simpler, more convenient form.
What makes this dish truly special is its ability to evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia, reminiscent of homemade meals shared with loved ones. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family, this casserole is sure to please palates and create lasting memories.
Moreover, the versatility of this recipe allows for customization to suit individual preferences. Whether you opt for ground beef or turkey, experiment with different cheese varieties, or choose brown rice for added nutrition, the result is always a satisfying and comforting meal.
Furthermore, its ease of preparation makes it a practical choice for busy schedules. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can enjoy the flavors of cabbage rolls without the time-consuming process of rolling them individually.
In essence, this Cheesy Cabbage Roll Casserole brings together the best elements of comfort food—heartiness, flavor, and ease of preparation. It’s a dish that not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul, making it a beloved addition to any table. So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and prepare to delight in the comforting goodness of this delightful casserole.