Cabbage Casserole

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for 5-7 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink, then drain any excess fat.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cooked rice, salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and basil. Mix well and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked cabbage and the beef mixture. Stir until it’s evenly mixed.
Transfer the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the beef broth over it to keep the casserole moist.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Best ways to enjoy it

To serve cabbage casserole, consider pairing it with a light side salad dressed in vinaigrette for balance. Garlic bread can also accompany it wonderfully, soaking up the saucy goodness. For a touch of brightness, a squeeze of lemon over the dish adds a refreshing twist.

Storage and reheating tips

If you have leftovers (although that’s unlikely!), store your cabbage casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. For reheating, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions, ensuring it’s heated evenly.

Helpful cooking tips

For added flavor, season the beef with some Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce while it cooks. You can also enhance the cheese layer by mixing in a bit of cream cheese for an extra creamy texture. If you’re in a hurry, using pre-cooked rice is a great time-saver!

Creative twists

Want to mix it up? Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition. You could also experiment with different cheeses; Gouda or pepper jack would introduce intriguing flavors. For a vegetarian version, simply replace the meat with lentils or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth.

Common questions

What is the prep time for cabbage casserole?
The prep time is roughly 15-20 minutes, which includes chopping and sautéing.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, just cover it well and refrigerate before baking. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge; just add a few extra minutes to the overall cooking time.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Cabbage casserole freezes beautifully. Just allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly and store in the freezer. Be sure to label it for easy identification later.