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Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole

Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole
55min Total Time
6 people Servings
Easy Difficulty
Budget Cost
350 kcal Calories

Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole is a deliciously simplified take on the classic cabbage roll, combining all the comforting flavors into one easy-to-make dish.


Ingredients

6
  • 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

3

Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking until they're soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

4

Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.

5

Stir in the chopped cabbage, cooking it down until tender, approximately 5-7 minutes.

6

Add the cooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper, mixing thoroughly.

7

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish.

8

If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top.

9

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.

10

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Kitchen Tools

  • Large skillet
  • 9x13 inch casserole dish
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Wooden spoon

Chef's Tips

Make sure to chop the cabbage into small, uniform pieces for even cooking.
Feel free to use ground chicken or a plant-based alternative for a healthier option.

Troubleshooting

If the casserole is too watery, allow it to bake uncovered for a few more minutes to evaporate excess liquid.
If the cabbage isn't tender, increase the baking time slightly.

Recipe Variations

Add bell peppers or carrots for extra vegetables.
Use different types of cheeses, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for varied flavors.

Healthy Alternatives

Substitute the ground beef with lentils or quinoa for a vegetarian version.
Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a low-carb alternative.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad.
Top with fresh parsley or dill for added flavor.

Nutrition Facts

350
Calories
24g
Protein
30g
Carbs
15g
Fat
4g
Fiber
4g
Sugar
600mg
Sodium
75mg
Cholesterol

Dietary Info

Lactose-free
Gluten-free

Garnish Ideas

Fresh chopped parsley
Sour cream or yogurt for a creamy contrast

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
This casserole can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Leftover Ideas

Mix the leftovers into a soup for a hearty meal.
Use the casserole as a filling for stuffed peppers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not cooking the cabbage enough, which can result in a tough texture.
Overcooking the casserole, which can dry it out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge overnight before baking.

How do I reheat the casserole?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and warm it in the oven.

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rice will save you a few minutes in the preparation.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure the tomato sauce is gluten-free and use gluten-free rice.

How can I make this spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Reviews

Emily
Apr 24, 2026
This was a hit with my family! Even the kids loved it.
Mike
Apr 26, 2026
Easy to make and delicious! I might add more spices next time.
Sarah
Apr 27, 2026
It was good but needed a bit more seasoning for my taste.
David
May 1, 2026
Best casserole I've made in a while, will make again!
Laura
Apr 12, 2026
Very comforting dish. Perfect for cold nights.
Tom
Apr 24, 2026
I love the simplicity of this recipe!
Karen
Apr 5, 2026
Super easy and filling. Great for meal prep.
Jessica
Apr 21, 2026
I added some hot sauce and it was fantastic!
Chris
Apr 6, 2026
A bit bland for my taste; I will experiment with flavors.
Megan
Apr 17, 2026
This will definitely be a regular in our dinner rotation!
Jake
Apr 22, 2026
Loved it! I might try it with chicken next time.
Nina
Apr 9, 2026
So delicious and easy to whip up, I can't recommend it enough!
Oliver
Apr 19, 2026
After trying this, I won't go back to regular cabbage rolls!
Sophia
Apr 28, 2026
Family loved it! Cheers for a simple recipe!
Liam
Apr 26, 2026
Great flavors; I just added some cheese on top for more goodness.
Finn
Apr 23, 2026
Perfect blend of flavors and super filling!
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