Cheesy Cabbage Roll Casserole – A Comforting Delight for Your Taste Buds!

Cabbage Roll Casserole – Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of our Cheesy Cabbage Roll Casserole! This delectable dish takes all the elements of classic cabbage rolls and transforms them into a mouthwatering casserole that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing. With layers of tender cabbage, savory ground beef, aromatic spices, and a generous amount of gooey cheese, this recipe will become an instant favorite on your dinner table. Join us on this culinary adventure and discover why this Cheesy Cabbage Roll Casserole is a must-try!

In our little family, this Cheesy Cabbage Roll Casserole has quickly become a cherished recipe. I remember the first time I made it for my husband; he couldn’t resist the irresistible aroma wafting from the oven. As we dug into our first bite, it was like a flavor explosion in our mouths. The combination of the tender cabbage, well-seasoned ground beef, and melty cheese was pure bliss. From that day forward, this recipe has earned a special place in our hearts and has become a regular feature on our weekly menu. I hope it brings as much joy and comfort to your family as it has to ours.

Why This Cheesy Cabbage Roll Casserole Is a Crowd-Pleaser?

• Unique Twist: We’ve taken the classic cabbage rolls and turned them into a convenient casserole. No more rolling and stuffing individual cabbage leaves; this recipe simplifies the process while retaining all the delicious flavors.
• Quality Ingredients: With lean ground beef, aromatic spices like paprika and garlic, and a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, each bite is bursting with savory goodness.
• Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort. With simple instructions and readily available ingredients, you can have a comforting and flavorful meal on the table in no time.
• Versatile and Satisfying: Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, potluck, or simply want a comforting weeknight dinner, this Cheesy Cabbage Roll Casserole is a versatile dish that never fails to satisfy.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. lean ground beef (455g)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can low sodium beef broth
• 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked (185g)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups finely shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray or olive oil spray.

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef. Once the beef is about halfway browned, add the chopped onion and continue cooking until the beef is fully browned. Reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic, stirring continuously for 1 minute. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Add the paprika, onion powder, ground cayenne pepper, brown sugar, tomato sauce, beef broth, and uncooked rice to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.

Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add half of the chopped cabbage and cook until slightly tender, around 5-7 minutes. Spread the cooked cabbage evenly over the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Top with half of the ground beef mixture, ensuring it covers the cabbage layer. Sprinkle half of the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the beef.

In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the remaining half of the chopped cabbage and cook until slightly tender, again for about 5-7 minutes. Spread the cooked cabbage evenly over the cheese layer in the casserole dish. Top with the remaining half of the ground beef mixture and finish with a sprinkle of the remaining shredded cheese.

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes or until the cheese is lightly browned and bubbling.

Notes:

• Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking. You can add additional spices, such as oregano or thyme, to enhance the flavor and make it your own.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. It will still provide a delicious and satisfying result.
• For a vegetarian option, you can omit the meat altogether and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
• If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, you can substitute the white rice with cauliflower rice. Simply cook the ground beef and vegetables first, then add the cauliflower rice and cook until tender.
• This casserole is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when hosting gatherings.
• Leftovers of this casserole taste even better the next day as the flavors have a chance to meld together. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven for a quick and satisfying meal.
• Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of cheese. You can try using a blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, or even Gruyere for a more gourmet twist.
• If you’re looking to add some extra vegetables to your meal, you can serve the casserole with a side of steamed broccoli, roasted carrots, or a fresh garden salad.
• This recipe is also freezer-friendly. You can divide the casserole into individual portions and freeze them for future meals. Just make sure to store them in airtight containers or freezer bags, and they’ll be ready to enjoy whenever you need a quick and delicious dinner.

In conclusion, our Cheesy Cabbage Roll Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic cabbage roll recipe that is sure to please both young and old alike. With its layers of tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, and a generous amount of gooey cheese, this casserole brings together all the comforting flavors you crave in a convenient and satisfying dish. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this recipe delivers on taste, simplicity, and versatility.

The Cheesy Cabbage Roll Casserole has earned a special place in our hearts, becoming a beloved staple in our household. The flavors and textures blend harmoniously, creating a mouthwatering experience with each bite. Plus, the ability to customize the recipe with your favorite spices, alternative meats, or additional vegetables allows you to make it uniquely yours.

So, why not gather your loved ones around the table and indulge in this delicious comfort food? With its cheesy goodness and the warmth it brings to every meal, our Cheesy Cabbage Roll Casserole is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home too. Give it a try, and let the flavors and aromas transport you to a place of culinary delight. Bon appétit!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute the lean ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative. The flavors will still meld together beautifully.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Simply cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, follow the instructions as usual, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Definitely! This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire casserole into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

What side dishes go well with this casserole?

This Cheesy Cabbage Roll Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. It also goes well with a side of steamed vegetables or roasted potatoes.

Cabbage Roll Casserole

Sacrlett

Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of our Cheesy Cabbage Roll Casserole! This delectable dish takes all the elements of classic cabbage rolls and transforms them into a mouthwatering casserole that's easy to make and perfect for sharing.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 38 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 8

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb. lean ground beef 455g
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 15 ounce can tomato sauce
• 1 14.5 ounce can low sodium beef broth
• 1 cup long grain white rice uncooked (185g)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium head green cabbage chopped
• 1 1/2 cups finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups finely shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Spray a 9x13 inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray or olive oil spray.
• In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef. Once the beef is about halfway browned, add the chopped onion and continue cooking until the beef is fully browned. Reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic, stirring continuously for 1 minute. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
• Add the paprika, onion powder, ground cayenne pepper, brown sugar, tomato sauce, beef broth, and uncooked rice to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
• Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add half of the chopped cabbage and cook until slightly tender, around 5-7 minutes. Spread the cooked cabbage evenly over the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Top with half of the ground beef mixture, ensuring it covers the cabbage layer. Sprinkle half of the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the beef.
• In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the remaining half of the chopped cabbage and cook until slightly tender, again for about 5-7 minutes. Spread the cooked cabbage evenly over the cheese layer in the casserole dish. Top with the remaining half of the ground beef mixture and finish with a sprinkle of the remaining shredded cheese.
• Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes or until the cheese is lightly browned and bubbling.

Notes

Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking. You can add additional spices, such as oregano or thyme, to enhance the flavor and make it your own.

If you prefer a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. It will still provide a delicious and satisfying result.

For a vegetarian option, you can omit the meat altogether and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.

If you're following a low-carb or keto diet, you can substitute the white rice with cauliflower rice. Simply cook the ground beef and vegetables first, then add the cauliflower rice and cook until tender.

This casserole is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. It's perfect for busy weeknights or when hosting gatherings.

Leftovers of this casserole taste even better the next day as the flavors have a chance to meld together. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven for a quick and satisfying meal.

Don't hesitate to experiment with different types of cheese. You can try using a blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, or even Gruyere for a more gourmet twist.

If you're looking to add some extra vegetables to your meal, you can serve the casserole with a side of steamed broccoli, roasted carrots, or a fresh garden salad.

This recipe is also freezer-friendly. You can divide the casserole into individual portions and freeze them for future meals. Just make sure to store them in airtight containers or freezer bags, and they'll be ready to enjoy whenever you need a quick and delicious dinner.

Keyword Cabbage Roll Casserole