Description
A simple and satisfying casserole that brings together seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, and rich tomato sauce, perfect for family gatherings and weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (lean)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped into bite-size pieces
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1–1 1/2 tsp salt, to taste
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1–2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar for topping
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish lightly.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Stir in the paprika, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Allow the spices to bloom for about a minute.
- Incorporate the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, and smoked paprika. Stir well and let it simmer for 5–7 minutes.
- Spread half of the chopped cabbage across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spoon half of the beef-tomato mixture evenly over the cabbage, then scatter half of the cooked rice on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage, beef mixture, and rice.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 60 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the casserole is bubbling.
- If using cheese, remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes until melted and lightly golden.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
This casserole can be made ahead of time and reheated. You can also substitute ground beef with ground turkey or lentils for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American