Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole (Easy & Comforting!)
This Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole takes all the cozy, nostalgic flavors of traditional cabbage rolls and transforms them into an easy, family-friendly dish—without the time-consuming rolling and tucking. It’s a one-pan comfort food classic made with ground beef, rice, cabbage, and tangy tomato sauce for a hearty, satisfying meal.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
All the flavor, none of the fuss – Enjoy traditional cabbage roll taste in a fraction of the time.
-
One-pan meal – Perfect for busy nights, minimal cleanup required.
-
Budget-friendly – Made with simple, pantry-staple ingredients.
-
Crowd-pleasing – Great for potlucks, family dinners, or make-ahead meal prep.
I first made this one winter when I was craving my grandmother’s stuffed cabbage but didn’t have the patience to roll each leaf. My family loved this version even more—and now it’s our go-to!
📝 Ingredients
-
1 lb ground beef – 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio for balanced flavor
-
1 small head green cabbage, chopped – Look for firm, heavy heads
-
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce – Choose one with no added sugar
-
1 medium yellow onion, chopped – Adds rich, savory depth
-
¾ cup uncooked long-grain white rice – Absorbs flavor and adds heartiness
-
1 tsp kosher salt – Enhances every element
-
1½ cups beef broth – Adds moisture and rich flavor (use low-sodium if needed)
👩🍳 How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole
1. Brown the Beef
Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until no pink remains (5–7 minutes), breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess grease to prevent a greasy casserole.
2. Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine browned beef, chopped cabbage, tomato sauce, onion, rice, and salt. Stir thoroughly so all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly. Pour beef broth over the top—this will help cook the rice and create a flavorful sauce.
4. Bake Covered
Cover tightly with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour. This allows the rice to cook and cabbage to soften.
5. Stir and Finish Baking
Remove foil, stir well, and bake uncovered for 20–30 minutes more. It’s done when the cabbage is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
📌 You Should Know
-
Even better the next day! Flavors deepen beautifully overnight.
-
Freezer-friendly – Store portions for up to 3 months.
-
Make-ahead approved – Assemble up to a day in advance and bake when needed.
💡 Pro Tip: I use beef broth instead of water, a small change from my grandmother’s version—but it makes a huge flavor difference. Once I tried it with homemade broth, my husband said it was the best version yet.
🔄 Make It Your Own
-
Meat Swap: Use half ground pork, half beef for a more traditional taste.
-
Hungarian Twist: Add 1 tbsp paprika + 1 tsp caraway seeds.
-
Spicy Kick: Stir in red pepper flakes to taste.
-
Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle 1 cup sharp cheddar on top in the final 10 minutes.
🥡 Storage & Reheating
-
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
-
Freezer: Freeze cooled portions for up to 3 months.
-
Reheating: Add a splash of broth or water before reheating in a 325°F oven for 20 minutes, or microwave in 1-minute intervals.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
-
A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill add a lovely Eastern European flair
-
Pair with crusty bread and butter for a hearty meal
-
Add a crisp green salad or steamed green beans for contrast
-
Try it with applesauce—the sweetness complements the savory cabbage beautifully
🔍 FAQs
→ What type of ground beef is best?
Use 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef for a balance of flavor and juiciness.
→ Can I substitute the white rice?
Yes—brown rice or quinoa work, but you may need to extend the cooking time.
→ Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use lentils or plant-based meat crumbles and substitute vegetable broth.
→ Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes—assemble up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding 10 extra minutes if starting cold.
→ How long do leftovers last?
Store in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
✨ Pro Tips
-
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to help the sauce thicken.
-
If your cabbage is very fresh and moist, reduce the beef broth by ¼ cup.
-
Want a golden, cheesy top? Add cheese in the final 10 minutes of baking.
This Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is the kind of recipe that feeds the soul—deeply satisfying, easy to prepare, and filled with comfort. Whether you’re honoring family traditions or simply looking for a hearty dinner, this dish is guaranteed to please.
