Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

Craving the hearty, comforting flavors of classic cabbage rolls without all the fuss of rolling? You’ve come to the right place! This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole delivers all that incredible taste in one easy, baked dish.

Why You’ll Love This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

Here’s why this casserole will become an instant favorite in your kitchen:

• Effortless Comfort: Enjoy the classic taste of cabbage rolls without the time-consuming individual wrapping.
• Rich & Savory: Layers of tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, and a vibrant tomato sauce create a symphony of flavor.
• Hearty & Satisfying: Packed with protein and vegetables, this casserole is a complete meal that truly fills you up.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with common, affordable ingredients, it’s a fantastic option for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.
• Fantastic for Meal Prep: It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for delicious lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the spices or add extra vegetables to suit your family’s preferences.
• Family Favorite: A proven crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will adore, blending familiar flavors into an exciting new form.

Ingredients Needed for Your Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

Gather these essential ingredients to bring this comforting dish to life, ensuring the freshest flavors and best texture:

• 2 pounds (900g) ground beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat, or use a mix for richer flavor.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: A yellow or white onion works best for its balanced sweetness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced garlic provides the most pungent and aromatic notes.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste, but this is a good starting point for seasoning the meat.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a lovely aromatic kick.
• 1 28 ounce (794g) can crushed tomatoes: Look for good quality crushed tomatoes for a robust sauce base.
• 1 19 ounce (539g) can tomato sauce: This adds smoothness and depth to the tomato flavor.
• 1 bay leaf: Essential for infusing a subtle, aromatic background note into the sauce. Remove before serving.
• ¼ cup (45g) long grain rice, uncooked: Standard long-grain white rice works perfectly, absorbing the delicious sauce as it bakes.
• 1 medium head cabbage, chopped: Choose a firm, fresh green cabbage. Chop it into bite-sized pieces for easy layering.

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Essential Equipment for this Cabbage Roll Bake

To create this hearty casserole, you’ll need a few key tools that simplify the cooking process:

• Large skillet or Dutch oven: Crucial for browning the ground beef and simmering the flavorful tomato sauce. A large skillet ensures even cooking.
• 9×13 inch (23x33cm) baking pan: The ideal size for layering your casserole components and achieving a beautifully baked result.
• Large pot or pan: Necessary for quickly softening the chopped cabbage before layering, which helps it become tender during baking.
• Cutting board and sharp knife: For efficient chopping of the onion, garlic, and cabbage.
• Colander: Handy for draining excess fat from the browned meat, ensuring your casserole isn’t greasy.

Recipe Overview: Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

Here’s a quick look at what to expect when preparing this comforting dish:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 75 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 8 servings
• Difficulty: Easy

Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a truly satisfying and easy-to-make meal:

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef with the chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onion is softened, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet, ensuring your casserole remains light and flavorful.

Step 2: Simmer the Rich Tomato Sauce

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1. Stir the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and bay leaf into the browned meat mixture.
2. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
3. Remove and discard the bay leaf from the sauce.
4. Stir in the uncooked long grain rice and set the sauce aside. The rice will absorb the delicious liquid as the casserole bakes.

Step 3: Prepare the Tender Cabbage

1. While the meat sauce is simmering, heat a tablespoon of oil in a separate large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped cabbage and cook, stirring occasionally, until it has significantly softened, typically about 10-15 minutes. The cabbage should be tender but still have a slight bite.
3. Remove the softened cabbage from the heat.

Step 4: Layer and Bake Your Casserole

1. In a 9×13 inch (23x33cm) baking pan, spread half of the cooked cabbage evenly across the bottom.
2. Spoon the entire meat and rice sauce mixture over the first layer of cabbage, spreading it out.
3. Top the meat sauce with the remaining half of the softened cabbage, creating a beautiful layered look.
4. Cover the baking pan tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
5. Remove the cover and continue to bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through, the rice is tender, and the cabbage is perfectly soft.
6. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

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Tips for Success with Your Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

Elevate your Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole with these pro tips for the best flavor and texture:

• Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allowing the tomato sauce to simmer for the full 15 minutes truly deepens the flavors.
• Sauté Cabbage First: Pre-cooking the cabbage ensures it becomes wonderfully tender without over-baking the rest of the casserole.
• Rice Absorption: The uncooked rice absorbs the tomatoey goodness as it bakes, making it incredibly flavorful and perfectly cooked.
• Check for Tenderness: Ensure the rice is fully cooked and the cabbage is soft before removing from the oven for optimal texture.
• Season in Layers: Taste and adjust seasonings after browning the meat and again after the sauce simmers for balanced flavor.

Variations & Substitutions for Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

Unleash your culinary creativity and tailor this casserole to your dietary needs or flavor preferences:

• Gluten-Free: Ensure your tomato products are gluten-free and use a gluten-free long-grain rice or quinoa.
• Vegetarian Twist: Replace ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat while browning for a subtle heat.
• Cheesy Topping: A sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or cheddar during the last 10 minutes of baking adds a delightful gooey finish.
• Add More Veggies: Diced carrots or bell peppers can be added with the onion for extra nutrition and color.

Serving Suggestions for Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

Round out your meal with these delightful pairings that complement the rich flavors of your casserole:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up every drop of that savory tomato sauce.
• Simple Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a lovely contrast.
• Steamed Green Beans: A classic and healthy side that pairs well with the hearty casserole.
• Cornbread: A slightly sweet cornbread offers a comforting balance to the savory main dish.
• Non-Alcoholic Drink: Freshly brewed iced tea or sparkling water with lemon would be refreshing choices.

Health Benefits of this Cabbage Roll Bake

Beyond its delicious flavor, this Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole offers some great nutritional advantages for a balanced meal:

• Rich in Protein: The ground beef provides essential protein for muscle health and satiety.
• Fiber-Packed: Cabbage is an excellent source of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting fullness.
• Vitamin-Rich: Tomatoes contribute vital Vitamin C and antioxidants, while cabbage offers Vitamin K and other nutrients.
• Wholesome Meal: Combines carbohydrates, protein, and vegetables for a balanced and nourishing dinner.

Storage & Reheating Your Cabbage Roll Casserole

Plan for delicious leftovers with these simple storage and reheating instructions, keeping your casserole tasting fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes exceptionally well! Transfer cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating (Oven): For best results, reheat individual portions in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, usually 15-20 minutes, covered to prevent drying.
• Reheating (Microwave): Individual portions can be quickly reheated in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions About Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

Got questions about making the perfect Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole? We’ve got answers to help you master this comforting dish:

• Can I use different ground meats?Absolutely! Ground turkey or ground chicken are excellent leaner alternatives. Adjust cooking time slightly as they cook faster.

• Why do you pre-cook the cabbage?Pre-cooking the cabbage ensures it becomes tender and soft in the final casserole without making the dish watery. Raw cabbage can be tough if not given a head start.

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole (up to step 6) and refrigerate it overnight. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time if baking from cold.

• What kind of rice is best?Long-grain white rice is ideal as it absorbs the sauce beautifully and cooks perfectly within the casserole. Brown rice would require a longer baking time and more liquid.

• How do I know if it’s done?The casserole is done when the rice is tender, the cabbage is soft, and the mixture is bubbling hot throughout. A gentle stir will confirm the rice texture.

  
  

More Delicious Dishes to Try

Craving more comforting meals that bring warmth to your table? Explore these fantastic recipes:

• The Meatloaf Every 1950s Kitchen Loved – A timeless classic, this meatloaf is packed with savory flavor and reminds everyone of home.
• Old-Fashioned Beef Stew – Rich, hearty, and brimming with tender beef and vegetables, this stew is pure comfort in a bowl.
• Easy Taco Casserole That Makes Weeknights Exciting Again – A vibrant and simple casserole that transforms taco night into a deliciously layered bake.

Conclusion

This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole brings all the beloved flavors of a classic dish to your table with unparalleled ease. It’s truly a celebration of hearty, comforting food perfect for any night of the week. Dive in and savor every satisfying bite!

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