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Italian Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

Are you ready to dive into a deliciously comforting meal that the whole family will love? Let me introduce you to the flavorful Italian Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole! This dish combines tender cabbage, hearty ground beef, and zesty tomato sauce topped with melted mozzarella cheese, creating a symphony of flavors that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Here's a fun fact: this casserole is essentially a deconstructed version of traditional cabbage rolls, saving you time and effort while delivering all the satisfying taste you crave! This dish is not only full of flavor but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. If you’ve ever spent hours rolling cabbage leaves to create the perfect stuffed rolls, you’ll appreciate this easy alternative that retains all the goodness without the fuss. Just like our popular Meatball Subs on the blog, this casserole is all about bringing comfort food to your table in a way that feels effortless. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on this amazing recipe!
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Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 pound medium lean ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 can 15 oz tomato sauce
  • 10 cups savoy cabbage chopped (about 3/4 of a large head)
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 1 carrot diced
  • 1 stalk celery diced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup cooked rice optional for added texture

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Brown it well, breaking it apart as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, drain it.
  • Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrot, celery, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté everything together for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
  • Add the Cabbage: Now stir in the chopped savoy cabbage and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until it wilts.
  • Mix in the Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, and then add the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and cooked rice (if using). Mix thoroughly so everything is well coated.
  • Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  • Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top.
  • Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool before serving.
  • What to Serve Italian Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole With
  • To complement this delicious casserole, consider serving a fresh garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread is another fabulous addition, offering a crispy and flavorful element that pairs beautifully with the softness of the casserole. If you want something a bit heartier, a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes can round out your meal perfectly.
  • Top Tips for Perfecting Italian Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole
  • Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re looking to make it vegetarian-friendly, swap the ground beef for a mixture of lentils and mushrooms. You can also use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice to make it low-carb.
  • Timing Adjustments: Keep an eye on the casserole while baking. Every oven is different, so check for a bubbly, golden cheese topping to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.
  • Common Mistakes to Avoid: Avoid overcrowding the skillet with vegetables to ensure they sauté evenly. If they’re too crowded, they’ll steam rather than brown, which could affect the flavor.
  • Storing and Reheating Tips
  • Storing leftovers is a breeze! Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious creation, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or pop it in the microwave for a quick option.
  • Now that you’ve got all the details, grab your ingredients, and start your culinary journey with this delightful Italian Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole! Happy cooking!