Cabbage Roll Casserole

Name: Cabbage Roll Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 large head of cabbage; 1 lb ground beef or turkey; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cooked rice; 2 cups tomato sauce; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Seasons of Comfort

I absolutely love making this Cabbage Roll Casserole on cozy weekends. It's a twist on the traditional cabbage rolls with layers of cabbage, hearty meat, and rich tomato sauce, all baked to perfection. The combination of flavors is not only satisfying but also brings a sense of nostalgia to my family dinners. Each bite is comforting, warm, and reminds me of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones. Plus, it’s a simple recipe that allows me to prepare a large batch for leftovers throughout the week!

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:01:35.763Z

When I first decided to create a Cabbage Roll Casserole, I was inspired by my mother's recipes, but I wanted a simpler way to enjoy it. The key is to sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the meat mixture; this really enhances the depth of flavor in the dish. As the casserole bakes, the cabbage softens beautifully and infuses all the layers with a subtle sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the tangy tomato sauce.

The leftovers taste even better because the flavors deepen and meld together overnight in the fridge. Don't be afraid to experiment with spices or add extra vegetables; this dish is versatile and perfect for creative cooks!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory layers of seasoned meat and tender cabbage
Rich tomato sauce that brings everything together
Easy to assemble and perfect for meal prep

Understanding Cabbage as a Main Ingredient

Cabbage plays a crucial role in this casserole, not only for its flavor but also for its texture. When properly blanched, cabbage leaves become tender yet still hold their shape, allowing for easy layering. If you find that your leaves are still too tough after blanching, simply return them to the boiling water for an additional minute. Additionally, Savoy cabbage can be used for a sweeter flavor and softer texture, making it a great substitute if you want to try something different.

Ensure you remove the thick stem from each cabbage leaf after blanching; this step facilitates easier rolling and layering, helping the leaves to nestle together without gaps, which means better flavor absorption during baking. If you're short on time, you can also use pre-chopped cabbage—look for packages labeled as 'cabbage slaw' for a mix that works well in this dish.

Optimal Layering Techniques

Layering is key to achieving the perfect bite of flavor in your casserole. Start with a couple of cabbage leaves at the base, which will absorb excess moisture from the meat mixture, preventing a soggy bottom. I recommend making sure each layer is spread evenly and tightly packed, which helps the ingredients blend beautifully while baking. Also, create slight gaps between layers to allow steam to escape, encouraging a browning effect on top without compromising the moisture within.

When you reach the final layer, pouring the remaining tomato sauce generously over the top helps to create a protective layer that keeps moisture in and promotes bubbling action. If you opt to add cheese, consider using a mix of mozzarella and cheddar; this combo melts beautifully and creates a rich, golden crust. Remember to check the casserole during the final baking stage to avoid over-browning; the cheese should be melted and slightly golden, around 15 minutes after you remove the foil.

Storage, Serving, and Variations

One of the best aspects of this Cabbage Roll Casserole is its adaptability for meal prep. After it cools, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through, covered with foil to keep it moist. You can also freeze individual portions for a convenient meal—just ensure you wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.

If you'd like to switch things up, consider adding different spices or vegetables to the filling. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or even some heat with crushed red pepper flakes can provide exciting variations of flavor. For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with a mixture of lentils, black beans, or beyond meat to maintain a satisfying texture without compromising on taste.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to bring this comforting dish to life:

Ingredients for Cabbage Roll Casserole

1 large head of cabbage
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cooked rice
2 cups tomato sauce
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Once you've gathered everything, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Cabbage Roll Casserole:

Prepare the Cabbage

Remove the core of the cabbage and carefully peel off 8-10 leaves. Blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until softened, then set aside.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until translucent. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in the cooked rice, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Layer the Casserole

In a large baking dish, start layering: place a layer of cabbage leaves, followed by half the meat mixture, then some tomato sauce, repeating this until all ingredients are used. Finish with a layer of remaining cabbage leaves and top with more tomato sauce. If desired, sprinkle cheese on top.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to melt the cheese and allow the casserole to brown slightly.

Serve

Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy this hearty dish with a side salad or crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using smoked paprika or adding some crushed red pepper flakes for heat. This casserole also freezes well, so you can make it in advance and reheat it as needed.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

A common challenge is ending up with a watery casserole, often caused by excess moisture in the cooked rice or uncooked meat. To prevent this, ensure your rice is cooked and cooled before adding it to the filling. Additionally, let the tomato sauce sit in a separate bowl for a few minutes to let excess moisture drain off before layering. If your casserole does turn out watery, simply remove it from the oven a bit early and let it sit uncovered for a few minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

Another potential issue is uneven cooking, which can happen if the layers are too thick. Aim for consistent layering throughout, packing lightly. For large casseroles, consider using a larger baking dish to allow for more even heat distribution. Rotate the dish halfway through baking to promote uniform cooking if your oven heats unevenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

This casserole is versatile in terms of ingredients. If you prefer ground chicken or pork instead of beef or turkey, those work just as well while providing a lighter option. Alternatively, for a vegan option, replace the meat with a combination of quinoa and finely chopped vegetables, such as carrots and zucchini. This ensures that you still have a hearty filling while keeping it plant-based.

For those who want to reduce carbs, you can eliminate the rice altogether or substitute it with cauliflower rice. This substitution maintains a fluffy texture without the added carbohydrates. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture from cauliflower rice before incorporating it into the filling to avoid a soggy consistency.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the serving experience, consider pairing your Cabbage Roll Casserole with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkling of fresh herbs, like parsley or dill, not only imparts freshness but also enhances the dish visually.

For a comforting complete meal, serve it alongside crusty bread for sopping up the delicious tomato sauce, or offer a side of roasted vegetables. These combinations will complement the flavors of the casserole while rounding out your family dinner in a satisfying way.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground chicken or pork can also be used instead of beef or turkey.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

Absolutely! Substitute the meat with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Cool the casserole to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the layers in advance and refrigerate before baking. Just add a few more minutes to the baking time.