Cabbage Roll Casserole

Introduction

Cabbage Roll Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that captures all the delicious flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the hassle of rolling each one. This casserole layers ground beef, tender cabbage, rice, and a rich tomato sauce, topped with melty cheese for a satisfying and easy-to-make meal. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you crave a warm, filling dish.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork (optional)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 head of cabbage, coarsely chopped (about 6-8 cups)
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
• 1 (14-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 cup water or beef broth
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Meat and Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and ground pork (if using) and cook until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add Tomato Sauce and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and seasonings (paprika and Italian seasoning if using). Add salt and pepper to taste. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
4. Layer the Ingredients: In a large baking dish, spread a layer of the chopped cabbage at the bottom. Sprinkle the uncooked rice evenly over the cabbage. Pour half of the meat mixture over the rice and cabbage. Repeat the layers, ending with the meat mixture on top.
5. Add Liquid: Pour the water or beef broth over the casserole to help cook the rice and cabbage.
6. Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the rice is fully cooked and the cabbage is tender.
7. Add Cheese: Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, and return the casserole to the oven. Bake, uncovered, for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it as a hearty main dish!

Conclusion

Cabbage Roll Casserole is a wonderfully simple and delicious way to enjoy all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the extra work. This layered casserole combines tender cabbage, savory beef, and rice in a rich tomato sauce, all topped with melted cheese for a truly comforting meal. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

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