Name: Cabbage Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-491905H19M54S
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey); 1 small onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped (about 6–8 cups); 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice); 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce; 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown); 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Optional Topping: 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese; Optional Topping: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers

I’ve always loved cabbage casseroles because they’re hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. This recipe combines tender cabbage, savory ground meat, and a rich tomato sauce for a dish that warms both the kitchen and the soul. It’s one of my go-to meals when I want something filling that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Main Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)

1 small onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped (about 6–8 cups)

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)

1/2 tsp paprika

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp dried oregano

1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Topping:

1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers (for a crunchy topping)

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Then, I cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it starts to brown, I add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the meat is fully browned and the onion is soft. I drain any excess fat.

Next, I stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cooked rice, and seasonings, letting it simmer for 5 minutes before removing it from heat.

I layer half of the chopped cabbage at the bottom of the casserole dish, spoon the meat mixture over it, and then top with the remaining cabbage. I cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes.

After that, I remove the foil, sprinkle on the cheese and breadcrumbs if I’m using them, and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. I let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to achieve the best texture.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people. Preparation takes about 20 minutes, and baking takes 45–60 minutes, depending on your oven and how tender you like the cabbage.

Variations

I often tweak this casserole depending on my mood:

Low-carb version: I skip the rice and add extra cabbage or cauliflower rice.

Creamy version: I stir in 1/2 cup sour cream or cream of mushroom soup into the meat mixture.

Spicy version: I use spicy sausage instead of ground beef or add hot sauce to the mix.

Freezer-friendly: I assemble the casserole unbaked, freeze it, then thaw overnight and bake as directed.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I cover it with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until heated through. It also reheats well in the microwave in individual portions, though the oven gives a better texture.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, I often use ground turkey for a lighter version. It works well with the tomato and cabbage flavors.

Can this casserole be made ahead of time?

Absolutely. I sometimes assemble it the night before and bake it the next day. It saves a lot of time.

How can I make this dish low-carb?

I replace the rice with extra cabbage or cauliflower rice. It’s still filling and delicious without the carbs.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, I assemble it unbaked and freeze it. I thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.

Can I make it creamy?

Definitely. I add 1/2 cup sour cream or cream of mushroom soup to the meat mixture for a richer texture.

Conclusion

This cabbage casserole has become one of my favorite comfort meals. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and endlessly adaptable. Whether I want it cheesy, spicy, creamy, or low-carb, it always hits the spot. It’s perfect for feeding a family, prepping for the week, or sharing with friends.

Cabbage Casserole

Ingredients

Directions

Servings and timing

Variations

Storage/Reheating