As the aroma of baking cheese fills the house, memories of family gatherings flood my mind. I can still hear the laughter and chatter as we all gathered around to share a hearty meal. One dish that always brought us together was a comforting cabbage casserole. It’s simple to make and brings warmth to any table. This recipe is special because it combines wholesome ingredients, like cabbage and ground beef, into a dish that both kids and adults love. You’ll not only fill your stomach but also create a cozy atmosphere, making it perfect for any occasion.
why make this recipe
This Easy Cabbage Casserole is a fantastic choice for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. It combines protein, vegetables, and carbs all in one dish. Cooking it all together means less cleanup too! Plus, the melted cheese on top creates a delightful finish, making it a family favorite that everyone will enjoy.
how to make Easy Cabbage Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions:
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until brown.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is soft.
- Stir in the cabbage and cook until it starts to soften.
- Add rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
- Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Enjoy hot for a comforting meal.
how to serve Easy Cabbage Casserole
Serve the cabbage casserole hot, right from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a burst of flavor and a nice presentation. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
how to store Easy Cabbage Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to defrost it in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Easy Cabbage Casserole
- For a deeper flavor, you can add in some spices or herbs that you enjoy, like oregano or basil.
- Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to make it lighter.
- Make it extra cheesy by adding more cheese on top before baking.
- You can also mix in other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
variation
For a vegetarian option, you can skip the ground beef and double the amount of cabbage or mix in some beans for protein. A meat substitute can also work well in place of beef.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and keep it in the fridge until you are ready to bake.
Can I use cooked cabbage instead of raw?
You can, but it might change the texture. Raw cabbage cooks down nicely in the casserole.
What can I serve with the casserole?
This dish goes well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
Easy Cabbage Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium head cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
- 1 8 oz can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Method
Preparation
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until brown.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is soft.
- Stir in the cabbage and cook until it starts to soften.
- Add rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
- Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.