Introduction
Stuffed cabbage roll casserole is a modern twist on the beloved traditional dish, combining the rich, comforting flavors of cabbage rolls into a convenient baked format. This casserole is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner with family or friends, bringing together the heartiness of meat, rice, and vegetables in one delightful bake.
Ingredients
500g ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped (150g)
2 cloves garlic, minced (10g)
200g cooked rice
800g chopped cabbage
700ml tomato sauce
250ml beef broth
1 teaspoon salt (5g)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (2g)
1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml)
1 teaspoon paprika (3g)
100g shredded mozzarella cheese
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
This stuffed cabbage roll casserole is not just comforting but also a great way to enjoy the classic flavors of cabbage rolls without the hassle of rolling individual rolls. It’s a dish that will quickly become a family favorite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C. This will ensure it’s hot enough to cook the casserole evenly once assembled.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until it is well-browned and no longer pink. Be sure to drain any excess fat to keep the dish light and healthy.
Step 4: Combine the Filling
In the same skillet, mix in the cooked rice, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir everything together until well combined, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Layer the Cabbage
In a large baking dish, spread half of the chopped cabbage evenly as the foundation for your casserole. This layer will act as a bed for the filling.
Step 6: Add the Meat Mixture
Spoon the beef and rice mixture over the layer of cabbage, spreading it out evenly to cover it thoroughly.
Step 7: Finish with Cabbage
Top the beef layer with the remaining chopped cabbage, creating a solid layer that will steam and soften during baking.
Step 8: Pour the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the tomato sauce and beef broth. Pour this tangy mixture over the layers in the baking dish, ensuring that it seeps through and saturates the cabbage.
Step 9: Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes to allow the cabbage to soften and the flavors to deepen.
Step 10: Add Cheese and Final Bake
After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a beautiful golden crust.
Step 11: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve!
Notes
Flavor Enhancements
Feel free to add herbs like thyme or parsley to the meat mixture for added depth of flavor.
Vegetarian Option
To make this casserole vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or a mixture of legumes.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, place servings in the microwave until warmed through, or re-bake in the oven covered with foil at 180°C until heated thoroughly.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking technique that involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil over medium to high heat. In this recipe, onions and garlic are sautéed to release their flavors before adding the ground beef.
Layering
Layering is a technique used to create depth of flavor and texture in a dish. The cabbage, beef mixture, and sauce are layered in the baking dish to build a hearty casserole.
Baking
Baking is a dry heat cooking method that uses hot air to cook the dish evenly. The casserole is baked initially covered with foil to create steam, and then uncovered to allow the cheese to melt and brown.
Simmering
Simmering involves cooking food gently in liquid at a low temperature. In this dish, the mixture of tomato sauce and beef broth simmers over the layered ingredients, allowing flavors to meld.
Cheese Melting
The process of cheese melting involves heating it to the point that it softens and browns, creating a gooey, delicious topping that enhances the overall flavor and texture of the casserole.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat for this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the ground beef based on your preference.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the casserole the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with stuffed cabbage roll casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This stuffed cabbage roll casserole is an easy and delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of cabbage rolls in a simplified format. It’s perfect for family dinners, allowing everyone to enjoy the hearty, comforting taste of this traditional dish with minimal effort. With a combination of tender cabbage, savory beef, and melted cheese, it’s sure to become a favorite for any occasion.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Swap cabbage for bell peppers, and stuff them with a similar mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce, then bake until the peppers are tender for a colorful and tasty dish.
Vegetarian Cabbage Roll Casserole
For a plant-based version, use lentils or quinoa in place of ground beef and mix in your favorite veggies, cheese, and plant-based sauce to create a hearty vegetarian option.
Italian Cabbage Roll Bake
Incorporate Italian spices, such as oregano and basil, and add ricotta cheese between layers for a flavorful Italian twist on the original casserole.
Cabbage Stir-Fry
Use the same core ingredients in a stir-fry format, sautéing cabbage, beef, and spices together for a quick and healthy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Cheesy Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
Substitute ground beef with sausage and layer it with cabbage and cheese in a skillet for a delicious one-pan meal that packs a flavorful punch.
Cabbage Roll Soup
Transform the casserole into a comforting soup by adding broth, diced tomatoes, and seasonings to create a warming dish that retains all the great flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls.
