Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

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🥬 Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole: All the Flavor, Half the Work!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This deconstructed stuffed cabbage roll casserole gives you all the cozy comfort of traditional holubtsi without the fuss of rolling! Layers of savory meat, tender cabbage, and tangy tomato sauce bake together into a hearty, satisfying one-dish meal that’s perfect for weeknights.

🥘 Ingredients (Serves 6)

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cups chopped green cabbage (about ½ small head)
  • 1½ cups cooked white rice (or cauliflower rice for low-carb)
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella (optional topping)

👩🍳 Easy Instructions

1. Brown the Meat

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a skillet, cook ground meat and onion over medium heat until meat is browned (5-7 min). Drain excess fat.

2. Layer the Casserole

  • In a 9×13-inch baking dish, mix:
  • Cooked meat mixture
  • Chopped cabbage
  • Cooked rice
  • Tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and all spices

3. Bake to Perfection

  • Cover with foil and bake 30 minutes.
  • Uncover, stir, and top with cheese (if using). Bake 10-15 more minutes until bubbly and cabbage is tender.

💡 Chef’s Tips

  • Prep ahead: Use leftover rice or frozen riced cauliflower.
  • Extra flavor: Add 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce to the meat.
  • Vegetarian twist: Swap meat for lentils or plant-based crumbles.
  • Crispy top: Broil 2-3 minutes after baking for golden cheese.

🍽 Serving Ideas

  • Garnish with fresh parsley or dill.
  • Serve with sour cream or crusty bread.
  • Pair with a simple cucumber salad for freshness.

⏳ Storage & Reheating

  • Fridge: Keeps 3-4 days in airtight container.
  • Freezer: Freeze portions up to 3 months.
  • Reheat: Microwave single portions or warm in oven at 350°F (175°C) with a splash of water.

Final Thought: This casserole is comfort food simplified—all the nostalgic flavor of grandma’s stuffed cabbage, with none of the rolling hassle. Perfect for busy nights!

(P.S. For a smoky kick, add ½ tsp cumin or a dash of hot sauce!)

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