Easy Cabbage Roll Casserole: Comfort Food at its Best

Cabbage Roll Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together rich layers of ground beef, tender cabbage, and a bubbling layer of mozzarella cheese. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, with each bite delivering a hearty, savory flavor. It’s a quicker alternative to traditional cabbage rolls, giving you all the deliciousness without the fuss of rolling each leaf.

Photo byNick Davies

I first came across this recipe when searching for a satisfying meal that wouldn’t take all night to prepare. As a fan of cabbage rolls, I wanted something that retained that classic taste but could be whipped up in under an hour. That’s when I found this gem from MMM Recipes, and it has been a favorite in my kitchen ever since.

Whether you’re looking to satisfy your craving for a classic dish or you’re aiming for a low-carb version with cauliflower rice, this recipe offers versatility and rich flavor in every bite.

Cultural Origins and Fun Facts

Cabbage rolls have a long history, appearing in various forms across many cultures, from Eastern Europe to the Middle East. Traditionally, they involve wrapping seasoned meat and rice in cabbage leaves, then simmering them in tomato sauce. This casserole version takes a shortcut while still honoring the essence of those cozy flavors. It’s an ideal option for those who love the heartiness of cabbage rolls but prefer a simpler preparation.

Ingredients List

• 1 tbsp avocado oil (or preferred oil)
• 4 minced garlic cloves
• 1 1/2 lb ground beef
• 1 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 4 cups cauliflower rice (or cooked white rice)
• 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 3/4 head cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (omit for paleo, dairy-free, or Whole30)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
2. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, seasoning it with sea salt and black pepper. Cook the beef until it’s fully browned, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks.
3. Combine with Rice: Stir in the cauliflower rice (or your choice of cooked white rice) and Italian seasoning. Allow the mixture to cook for a few minutes, giving the flavors time to meld together.
4. Layer the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, layer the ground beef mixture, chopped cabbage, and marinara sauce. Continue layering until all the ingredients are used up, ending with a final layer of marinara sauce.
5. Add Cheese and Bake: Top the casserole with shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Tips & Variations

• Paleo & Whole30 Options: Simply skip the cheese to make this recipe paleo or Whole30 compliant.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat or a mix of sautéed mushrooms and lentils.
• Add More Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini in the layering stage.
• Garnish Suggestions: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of paprika on top for a burst of color and extra flavor.

Call to Action

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Happy cooking!