Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole: A Comfort Food Delight
Picture this: a cozy evening at home, the comforting aroma of a hearty dish bubbling away in your oven, and the anticipation of gathering around the table with loved ones. That's what you get with Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole! This dish is not just flavorful; it’s a delightful mix of tender cabbage, savory meat, and sufficient rice slathered in rich tomato sauce that warms the soul. The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity and family-friendly appeal – it’s a meal that can easily bring everyone together. Fun fact: Did you know that stuffed cabbage has roots in various cuisines around the world, and is called different names, including “golabki” in Polish and “dolma” in Turkish? You should try this recipe because it’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and deliciously satisfying. Compared to the popular lasagna on the blog, this casserole brings a delightful twist that everyone will enjoy, so gather your ingredients, and let's dive into this flavorful journey!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cups chopped green cabbage
- 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 can 15 oz tomato sauce
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Make sure to drain any excess fat after cooking.
- Sauté the Onion: Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture with chopped cabbage, cooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish: Spread the mixture evenly in a greased casserole dish.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove Foil and Finish Baking: After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the edges are bubbly.
- Let Cool: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors settle.
- What to Serve Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole With:
- To create a well-rounded meal, consider serving your Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole alongside some classic sides like garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. The crispness of a salad perfectly balances the hearty casserole, adding freshness to your plate. For drinks, a chilled glass of iced tea or lemonade brings a refreshing touch that everyone will enjoy!
- Top Tips for Perfecting Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole:
- Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to swap the ground beef for ground turkey or even a vegetarian meat substitute for a plant-based version.
- Cabbage Prep: If you're short on time, pre-chopped cabbage can be a lifesaver.
- Flavor Boost: For additional flavor, consider adding some Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper for a kick!
- Storing and Reheating Tips:
- To store leftovers, simply place the casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions wrapped tightly to maintain quality for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, place it in an oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals to achieve the perfect temperature without drying it out.
- So there you have it! Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is an easy, comforting, and mouthwatering dish that you simply have to try. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the cooking process and, most importantly, enjoy the delicious results!