Quick & Easy Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe

If you love classic cabbage rolls but don’t have time for all the rolling and wrapping, this quick and easy cabbage roll casserole will become your go to comfort meal. It delivers the same hearty flavor of traditional cabbage rolls but with half the effort. Layers of tender cabbage, flavorful beef, and rich tomato sauce come together to create a delicious family favorite that’s both filling and effortless.

Ingredients List

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.

Step 2: Add Tomato Mixture

Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors blend beautifully.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

In a greased baking dish, spread half of the chopped cabbage. Add half of the beef mixture and a layer of cooked rice. Repeat with the remaining cabbage and beef.

Step 4: Bake Until Tender

Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 40 to 45 minutes, until the cabbage becomes soft and the sauce bubbles gently.

Step 5: Add Cheese (Optional)

Remove the foil, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and bake for another 5 minutes until melted and golden.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Each bite offers the comforting flavor of homemade cabbage rolls without the extra work.

Cook Time

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour and 5 minutes

Servings

This recipe makes 6 hearty servings.

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

Calories: 380
Protein: 27g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 19g
Fiber: 4g

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm. This dish also freezes well store portions in freezer safe containers for up to 2 months.

Suggestions

For a deeper flavor, mix a spoon of tomato paste into the sauce or add a pinch of crushed red pepper for gentle heat. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Serve with a simple green salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.

Seasonal Relevance

This casserole is perfect during chilly fall and winter evenings when comfort food is most welcome. However, its quick prep makes it suitable for any season when you need a wholesome, homemade meal without fuss.

Conclusion

This quick and easy cabbage roll casserole brings together everything you love about traditional cabbage rolls in a simple, layered form. It’s hearty, flavorful, and ready with minimal effort a comforting dish that fits any family table.