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Introduction
Cheesy cabbage roll casserole is a warm and comforting dish that brings together the classic taste of cabbage rolls in a much easier way. Instead of rolling each cabbage leaf one by one, this recipe layers everything in a baking dish and lets the oven do the work. It is filled with tender cabbage, juicy meat, rich tomato sauce, and lots of melted cheese. The result is a soft, creamy, and flavorful meal that feels homemade and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves cozy food but wants a simple cooking process.
Many people love this recipe because it tastes like a traditional family meal but saves a lot of time. Cabbage roll casserole has all the familiar flavors people grew up with, especially in comfort food loving homes. The cheese adds extra richness and makes the dish more filling and enjoyable. Even picky eaters often enjoy this meal because the cabbage becomes soft and mild in flavor. The layers blend together beautifully, creating a balanced taste in every bite.
This is a great recipe to make when you want something warm and filling after a long day. It is perfect for family dinners, weekend meals, or even meal prep for the week. If you are trying to eat more vegetables, cabbage is a great choice because it is light yet filling. The casserole style makes it easier to eat healthy food without feeling like you are missing out. It also works well for colder days when you want something that feels comforting and homemade.
Cheesy cabbage roll casserole is also a wonderful option for beginners in the kitchen. You do not need special tools or advanced cooking skills. Everything is simple and straightforward, which makes it less stressful. The recipe is forgiving, so small mistakes will not ruin the dish. That is why many home cooks return to this recipe again and again.
Another reason people enjoy this dish is because it is flexible. You can change ingredients based on what you have at home. You can make it lighter, richer, or more filling depending on your needs. It works well for families, couples, or even single servings. This makes it a great recipe to keep in your regular meal rotation.
Overall, this cheesy cabbage roll casserole is about comfort, ease, and flavor. It brings people together around the table and fills the kitchen with a wonderful smell. It is a dish that feels like a hug in food form and reminds you that simple meals can still be very special.
Ingredients You Will Need
Green cabbage one medium sized head chopped into bite sized pieces
Ground beef one pound
Cooked rice two cups
Onion one large finely chopped
Garlic three cloves minced
Tomato sauce two cups
Crushed tomatoes one cup
Salt one teaspoon
Black pepper half teaspoon
Paprika one teaspoon
Italian seasoning one teaspoon
Cheddar cheese two cups shredded
Mozzarella cheese one cup shredded
Olive oil two tablespoons
Water half cup
Step by Step Method
First, start by preparing the cabbage. Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage and wash it well under running water. Cut the cabbage into small pieces that are easy to eat. You do not need to boil the cabbage separately because it will cook in the oven. Set the chopped cabbage aside in a large bowl.
Next, heat a large pan on medium heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is warm, add the chopped onion. Cook the onion until it becomes soft and lightly golden. This will take about five minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute. Stir gently so the garlic does not burn.
Now add the ground beef to the pan. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it is no longer pink. Stir often to make sure it cooks evenly. Once the beef is cooked, drain any extra fat if needed. This step helps keep the casserole from becoming too oily.
After the meat is cooked, add salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Stir well so the spices coat the meat evenly. Then pour in the tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes. Add half cup of water to thin the sauce slightly. Let everything simmer for about five minutes. This helps the flavors blend together.
Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is heating, lightly grease a large baking dish with a little olive oil. This will prevent the casserole from sticking.
Now it is time to assemble the casserole. Start by spreading half of the chopped cabbage evenly in the baking dish. Next, add half of the cooked rice on top of the cabbage. Spread it out gently so it covers most of the layer.
After the rice layer, spoon half of the meat and tomato mixture over the rice. Spread it evenly using the back of a spoon. Then sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the meat layer.
Repeat the layers again. Add the remaining cabbage, then the remaining rice, followed by the rest of the meat mixture. Finish by adding the remaining cheddar cheese and all the mozzarella cheese on top.
Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the oven. Bake for about forty minutes. This allows the cabbage to soften and the flavors to come together. After forty minutes, remove the foil and bake for another fifteen minutes. This step helps the cheese melt and turn slightly golden on top.
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for ten minutes. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve. Scoop out a portion and enjoy while it is warm and cheesy.
Why This Recipe Is Special
This recipe is special because it combines comfort food with simple cooking steps. You get all the taste of classic cabbage rolls without the extra work. The casserole method saves time and energy, which is perfect for busy days.
Cabbage is a very healthy vegetable. It is low in calories and high in fiber. It helps you feel full without eating too much. It also contains vitamins that support overall health. When cooked slowly in the oven, cabbage becomes soft and sweet, making it easier to enjoy.
The combination of meat, rice, and cheese makes this dish very filling. It provides protein, carbohydrates, and fats in one meal. This balance helps keep your energy steady and makes the meal satisfying.
Another great thing about this recipe is how family friendly it is. Kids and adults both enjoy the cheesy texture and mild flavors. It is a great way to introduce more vegetables into meals without complaints.
Extra Tips for Better Taste
You can add a little sour cream on top when serving for extra creaminess. This adds a fresh and rich flavor that pairs well with the cheese.
If you like a bit of spice, you can add a small amount of red pepper powder to the meat mixture. This gives a gentle heat without overpowering the dish.
Using freshly shredded cheese instead of pre packed cheese can improve the melting and taste. Fresh cheese melts smoother and feels creamier.
You can also add chopped bell peppers or carrots to the meat mixture for extra vegetables and color. This makes the dish even more nutritious.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy cabbage roll casserole is a wonderful recipe for anyone who loves warm and comforting meals. It is easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. This dish shows that simple ingredients can create something truly satisfying. Whether you are new to cooking or experienced in the kitchen, this recipe is a great choice that you will want to make again and again.
Nutrition Details
Nutrition values are approximate and based on one serving.
Calories about four hundred fifty
Protein about twenty five grams
Carbohydrates about thirty five grams
Fat about twenty two grams
Fiber about five grams
Calcium about two hundred milligrams
Iron about three milligrams
This recipe makes about six servings.