Description
This Easy Cabbage Casserole is a hearty, budget-friendly dish made with tender cabbage, ground meat, tomato sauce, and melty cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this comforting baked casserole is low-carb, gluten-free, and customizable to suit any taste. A simple and delicious way to enjoy cabbage!
Ingredients
- 1 medium green cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or sausage)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce (or diced tomatoes)
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional, for a heartier casserole)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
- ½ cup heavy cream or sour cream (for extra creaminess)
- 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Cook the Cabbage: In a large skillet, melt butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped cabbage and cook until softened (5-7 minutes). Transfer to the baking dish.
- Brown the Meat: In the same skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Drain excess grease.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. If using cooked rice, add it now. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the meat mixture over the cooked cabbage. Stir gently. Pour in heavy cream or sour cream, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Low-Carb/Keto: Skip the rice and use more cabbage and meat.
- Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based ground meat.
- Extra Cheesy: Mix in cream cheese for an ultra-creamy version.
- Slow Cooker Method: Cook on low for 4-6 hours until the cabbage is tender.
