Picture this: a bubbling casserole, warm and rich with the smells of garlic and beef, dancing through your kitchen. This Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole is taking over social media for all the right reasons. Home cooks everywhere are craving this cozy meal that harks back to heartwarming family dinners while making life just a little bit easier.
This dish is the best of both worlds: you get all those classic flavors without the fuss. Ground beef, tender cabbage, and a sweet-tangy tomato sauce are the stars here. It’s like your grandma’s version, but way faster and only one pan to clean! Full details in the blog!
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Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Easy Delicious Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This beef cabbage roll casserole is a hearty and simple dish perfect for any dinner. It combines lazy cabbage roll casserole rice and keto beef cabbage casserole cauliflower rice into a delicious meal using ground beef. Enjoy a tasty blend inspired by deconstructed cabbage rolls made easy.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 28-oz can tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 3 1/2 pound head cabbage chopped
- 1 cup uncooked long grain rice
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 3/4 tsp garlic powder
- 2 14-oz cans beef broth
- monterey jack cheese for serving
Instructions
- Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and coat a 9×13 inch pan with cooking spray.
- Cook the ground beef and softened onion in a saucepan over the stove, draining excess fat if necessary, then transfer the mixture to a large bowl.
- Mix in tomato sauce, chopped cabbage, uncooked rice, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined, then place this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Pour beef broth evenly over the casserole without stirring, cover the dish with foil, and bake for 1 hour.
- Remove the foil, stir the casserole gently, cover again, and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until rice and cabbage are tender.
- Serve warm with an optional sprinkle of monterey jack cheese on top for extra flavor.
Notes
- Recipe adapted from Allrecipes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
Nutrition
- Calories: 277kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 6.3g
- Saturated Fat: 2.8g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 27.4g
- Cholesterol: 67mg
Why It’s a Family Favorite
This Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole is more than just a mealit’s a warm embrace on a plate! Picture your loved ones gathered around the table, savoring each bite as if wrapped in a cozy blanket. This dish captures the nostalgic flavors of classic cabbage rolls but with a much simpler preparation. No need to fuss with rolling leaves or juggling multiple potsjust one pan and some gentle stirring!

Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy Sunday dinner, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients everyone will enjoy. Plus, the aroma filling your kitchen is simply irresistible. Hearty, satisfying, and drenched in tomato goodness, it warms both heart and soul!
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this comforting dish to life:
- Lean Ground Beef: Provides protein and a rich flavor base.
- Chopped Onion: Adds sweetness and depth.
- Tomato Sauce or Crushed Tomatoes: The tangy heart that binds everything together.
- Chopped Cabbage: Tender and buttery when baked, it complements the beef beautifully.
- Uncooked Long Grain Rice: Acts as a hearty filler that soaks up all the flavors.
- Seasonings: A mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the dish.
- Beef Broth: Keeps everything moist and adds richness.
- Monterey Jack Cheese: A delightful optional topping that adds creaminess.
Simple Steps to Make It
Ready to dive in? Follow these straightforward steps for a dinner that practically cooks itself!
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF and prepare a 9×13″ baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large saucepan, brown the ground beef along with chopped onion until the beef is no longer pink; drain if needed.
- In a big bowl, combine the beef mixture with tomato sauce, cabbage, rice, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well until everything is thoroughly blended.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, then gently pour the beef broth over the top. Do not stir!
- Cover with foil and bake for an hour.
- After an hour, remove the foil, stir to combine, recover with foil, and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the rice and cabbage are tender.
| Cooking Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Bake covered | 1 hour |
| Bake uncovered & stir | 30 minutes |
Easy Customizations
A flexible recipe is a happy recipe! Here are some ideas to customize your Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole:
- Swaps: Looking to lighten things up? Swap the long grain rice for cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly option.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in chopped bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for those who enjoy a little kick!
How to Serve & Store
This dish is just as comforting fresh from the oven as it is enjoyed as leftovers! Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Serving: Serve it hot, with a sprinkle of Monterey Jack cheese on top for an irresistible cheesy finish.
- Leftover Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for a quick meal later.
- Reheating: When ready, simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If it seems dry, a splash of beef broth can restore moisture!
And there you have it! A Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole that’s not only easy to make but sure to become a family favorite. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy this cozy meal that makes everyone feel at home. Happy cooking!
Expert Says
In a beef cabbage roll casserole, the combination of lean beef and cabbage provides a great source of protein and fiber. Cabbage is particularly high in antioxidants and vitamins C and K, which can enhance immune function. Cooking the dish slowly allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting and nutritious meal.
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The Adventure of My Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole
After countless attempts where the filling either overflowed or the cabbage turned mushy, I finally nailed my Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole! Each experiment felt like a culinary puzzle, and now I can’t wait to share this cozy, hearty dish that reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen on chilly evenings.
FAQs ( Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole )
What is the best way to store leftover casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing and freezing to prevent ice crystals.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before popping it in the oven.
What can I substitute for rice?
If you prefer a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is a fantastic substitute. For a gluten-free variant, consider quinoa or even a mix of lentils for a unique flavor and texture. Each option will lend a different taste to the dish.
How do I reheat leftover casserole?
To reheat, place the leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but be sure to cover it to maintain moisture. Adding a splash of broth can help keep it from drying out.

Conclusion
And there you have it! This Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole delivers warmth and comfort, perfect for busy evenings when you crave something hearty. With minimal prep and cook time, you’ll love how the flavors meld together, filling your home with the most inviting aroma. Your family will thank you for bringing this cozy classic back to the table!
If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the rice for cauliflower rice for a keto twist, or add extra veggies for added crunch. A little tip from my kitchen: storing leftovers in a sealed container keeps them fresh for up to four days. Trust me, it tastes even better the next day!
I’d love to hear how your casserole turns out! Did you grow up with something similar in your family? Snap a pic and share your stories! Remember, this recipe is meant to be enjoyed and shared, so save it for later or pass it on to someone who could use a cozy meal. Happy cooking, my friend!










