Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe simplifies the classic cabbage roll by layering all the ingredients into a delicious, oven-baked dish. It’s packed with protein, veggies, and comforting tomato sauce, making it a wholesome family-friendly dinner. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste even better.

Ingredients

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

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 3.5 pounds chopped cabbage
• 29 ounces canned tomato sauce
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 28 ounces canned beef broth

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until beef is browned and onions are softened. Drain excess fat.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked beef and onions, uncooked rice, and salt. Mix well.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the chopped cabbage evenly on the bottom.
5. Spread the beef and rice mixture over the cabbage layer.
6. Top with the remaining chopped cabbage.
7. Pour the canned tomato sauce and beef broth evenly over the entire dish.
8. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the rice and cabbage are tender.
9. Remove foil during the last 10 minutes of baking for a slight browning on top if desired.
10. Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

Serves: 8
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Add garlic or other herbs like thyme and paprika to boost flavor.
• Mix in diced tomatoes or tomato paste for a richer sauce.
• Incorporate cooked mushrooms or bell peppers into the beef mixture.
• Use brown rice instead of white rice, adjusting cooking time as needed.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months—thaw before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cabbage instead of chopped?

Yes, just chop the cabbage finely or shred it to ensure even cooking.

Do I need to cook the rice before mixing?

No, the rice cooks fully during baking in the sauce and broth.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, layer ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

How do I prevent the dish from being watery?

Drain excess fat after cooking beef and avoid adding extra liquid beyond the recipe.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, carrots, celery, or mushrooms can be added to the beef mixture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate overnight before baking.

How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe is mild but can be adjusted with added spices or hot sauce.

What sides pair well with stuffed cabbage?

Mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple green salad are great accompaniments.

How do I reheat leftovers best?

Reheat gently in the oven covered with foil or in the microwave to avoid drying out.

Conclusion

Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish is a simple, flavorful, and comforting meal that brings together classic ingredients into an easy-to-make casserole. Its layered textures and rich tomato sauce make it perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week. This dish is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

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