This stuffed cabbage casserole takes all the flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls and transforms them into an easy, layered casserole that’s perfect for busy nights. Hearty ground beef, tender cabbage, savory tomato sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella cheese come together in this crowd-pleasing dish. It’s a comforting, flavorful meal your whole family will enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Stuffed cabbage rolls can be a bit time-consuming, but this casserole simplifies the process without compromising on flavor. With all the deliciousness of the classic dish—beef, rice, cabbage, and a rich tomato sauce—it’s easy to prepare and bake all in one dish. The layers of savory beef and melted mozzarella create a satisfying, hearty meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for a family or entertaining guests, this casserole is a guaranteed hit!

Ingredients

2 tablespoon olive oil, divided
1 medium onion, diced
2 teaspoon salt, divided
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 lb lean ground beef
2 teaspoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon paprika
1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 ½ cups cooked white rice
½ large green cabbage (or 1 small one), cored and chopped into bite-sized pieces
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Sauce:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and black pepper. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and fully cooked. Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, tomato puree, and diced tomatoes. Let the mixture simmer for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Stir in the cooked rice and mix well. Set aside.
Cook the Cabbage:
- In a separate pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until wilted and partially softened, about 5–7 minutes. Season with the remaining 1 teaspoon salt.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a baking dish. Spread ⅓ of the beef and tomato sauce mixture evenly at the bottom of the dish. Top with ½ of the cooked cabbage. Repeat the layers with another ⅓ of the sauce mixture and the remaining cabbage. Finish with the last layer of the remaining sauce mixture on top.
Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top, and return the casserole to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve:
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Each serving contains about 400 calories.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or extra beans and lentils for a vegetarian twist.
Cheese Variation: Swap the mozzarella for cheddar cheese, gouda, or a combination of your favorite cheeses.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
Rice Substitute: Use cauliflower rice or quinoa for a low-carb alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes until heated through. You can cover it with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it the next day.

2. Can I freeze the stuffed cabbage casserole?

Yes, this casserole can be frozen! After baking, let it cool completely and store it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

3. Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, or chicken would work well in this recipe as an alternative to ground beef.

4. Can I skip cooking the cabbage before assembling?

It’s best to cook the cabbage slightly to soften it. However, if you prefer a firmer texture, you can skip this step and layer the cabbage raw.

5. What can I serve with this casserole?

This dish is hearty on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

6. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice is a great alternative for a healthier version, though it may change the texture slightly.

7. How can I make this casserole spicier?

Add more paprika, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to the sauce mixture to give it a spicy kick.

8. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, try using cheddar, provolone, or gouda instead of mozzarella to customize the flavor.

9. Is this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and rice, this dish is gluten-free.

10. How do I make the casserole even more cheesy?

For extra cheese, add shredded cheese between the layers or sprinkle some cheese on top before baking.

Conclusion

This stuffed cabbage casserole combines the comforting, familiar flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls but in a much simpler, easy-to-make casserole form. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it’s hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to satisfy. With minimal prep and ingredients, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.