Easy Cabbage and Beef Casserole Bak

Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

A hearty, oven-baked stuffed cabbage roll casserole with ground beef, rice, cabbage, and savory tomato sauce—perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

My grandmother's original stuffed cabbage recipe required hours of preparation and careful rolling technique. This casserole version captures every bit of that nostalgic flavor while fitting perfectly into modern busy schedules. Even my pickiest family members request this dish regularly.

Essential Ingredient Guide

• Lean Ground Beef: Provides protein foundation while 80/20 blend offers best flavor without excess grease
• Fresh Green Cabbage: Choose firm heads with crisp outer leaves, avoid pre-shredded varieties that become mushy
• Uncooked White Rice: Absorbs flavors during baking, never use pre-cooked rice which becomes mushy
• Quality Tomato Sauce: Low-sodium varieties allow better seasoning control, look for brands without added sugars
• Yellow Onion: Adds sweetness and aromatic base, can be diced finely for subtle flavor or chunky for texture
• Beef Broth: Creates steam for proper rice cooking, homemade versions add deeper flavor than store-bought

Complete Cooking Method

Ground Beef Preparation

Heat large skillet over medium-high heat and add ground beef without overcrowding. Cook for five to seven minutes, breaking into small crumbles with wooden spoon. The meat should develop golden brown color throughout. Drain excess grease completely using fine mesh strainer to prevent greasy casserole.

Ingredient Assembly Process

Combine chopped cabbage, drained ground beef, tomato sauce, diced onion, uncooked rice, salt, and preferred seasonings in large mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly until rice distributes evenly throughout mixture. Every grain should be coated with tomato sauce for proper cooking.

Casserole Dish Preparation

Spread mixture evenly in greased nine-by-thirteen inch baking dish, pressing down lightly to eliminate air pockets. Pour beef broth slowly over entire surface, ensuring liquid reaches all corners. The broth provides necessary moisture for rice cooking and prevents burning.

Proper Baking Technique

Cover tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and moisture during cooking process. Bake at three hundred fifty degrees for exactly one hour without peeking. Remove foil carefully and stir gently to redistribute ingredients and check rice doneness.

Final Cooking Stage

Re-cover with foil and continue baking for twenty to thirty additional minutes until cabbage becomes fork-tender and rice appears fluffy. Internal temperature should reach one hundred sixty-five degrees throughout. Rest covered for ten minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Optional Cheese Finishing

For golden bubbly top, sprinkle shredded cheese during final five minutes of uncovered baking. Choose mild cheddar or mozzarella that melts smoothly without overwhelming other flavors.

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Perfect Serving Ideas

Transform this hearty casserole into complete dinners by pairing with crisp cucumber salad or roasted root vegetables. Crusty bread works wonderfully for soaking up the flavorful tomato juices. For elegant presentation, garnish individual servings with fresh chopped parsley and dollop of sour cream that adds cooling contrast to the warm spiced flavors.

Creative Recipe Variations

Customize flavors by substituting ground turkey or chicken for lighter protein options. Vegetarian versions work beautifully using lentils or crumbled firm tofu with vegetable broth. Spice enthusiasts can add paprika, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños for heat that complements the tomato base perfectly.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover portions in airtight containers for up to four days in refrigerator. Reheat individual servings in microwave with splash of broth to restore moisture. For best results, reheat larger portions in covered baking dish at three hundred degrees until heated through completely.

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This cabbage beef casserole represents everything wonderful about comfort food cooking. The dish proves that traditional flavors can adapt beautifully to modern convenience without sacrificing taste or satisfaction. Every forkful delivers that perfect combination of tender vegetables, seasoned meat, and fluffy rice that makes ordinary weeknights feel special and nourishing.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Ground turkey, pork, or even a mix of beef and pork work great. Just make sure to drain any excess fat after browning.

→ Do I need to cook the rice first?

No, the rice cooks right in the casserole. The beef broth and tomato sauce provide enough liquid for the rice to cook perfectly.

→ How do I know when it's done?

The cabbage should be tender and the rice should be fully cooked. If the rice still seems hard, add a bit more broth and bake longer.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and refrigerate. You might need to add 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What should I serve with this?

This is pretty hearty on its own, but crusty bread, a simple salad, or some sour cream on top make great additions.

→ How long do leftovers keep?

Leftovers stay good in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months.