Cabbage rolls are a beloved dish across many cultures—Eastern European, Middle Eastern, and even Asian cuisines have their own versions. But let’s be honest: rolling each individual cabbage leaf can be time-consuming. Enter Cabbage Roll Casserole, a deconstructed, easier-to-make version that delivers all the same flavors with half the effort.
This hearty, one-dish wonder layers seasoned ground meat, rice, tender cabbage, and a rich tomato sauce for a meal that’s both comforting and nutritious. In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ The origins of cabbage rolls and why casserole form works so well
✔ Key ingredients for maximum flavor
✔ Step-by-step instructions for the perfect casserole
✔ Make-ahead and freezing tips
✔ Delicious variations to suit different diets
Whether you’re craving a taste of tradition or need a crowd-pleasing weeknight dinner, this casserole is the answer.
Why Cabbage Roll Casserole?
1. All the Flavor, Less Work
- No tedious rolling—just layer and bake!
- Same great taste as traditional cabbage rolls, but faster to prepare.
2. Budget-Friendly & Nutritious
- Cabbage is inexpensive and packed with fiber and vitamins (C, K).
- Ground beef, turkey, or plant-based crumbles make it adaptable.
3. Perfect for Meal Prep
- Makes great leftovers (flavors deepen overnight).
- Freezes beautifully for future meals.
Essential Ingredients for Cabbage Roll Casserole
The Base:
- 1 medium head of cabbage – Shredded or chopped (no precooking needed!).
- 1 lb ground meat – Beef, pork, turkey, or plant-based crumbles.
- 1 cup cooked rice – White, brown, or cauliflower rice for low-carb.
The Flavor Builders:
- 1 onion & 2-3 garlic cloves – Sautéed for depth.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce – Or crushed tomatoes for texture.
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste – Concentrated richness.
- 1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp thyme, salt & pepper – Classic seasoning.
Optional Upgrades:
- Cheese topping – Mozzarella, Parmesan, or feta for a golden crust.
- Bacon or sausage – For extra smokiness.
- Hot sauce or Worcestershire – For a tangy kick.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or substitute)
- 1 medium cabbage, chopped (~6 cups)
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Brown the meat: In a skillet, cook ground beef with onion and garlic until no pink remains. Drain excess fat.
- Build the sauce: Stir in tomato sauce, paste, broth, and spices. Simmer 5 minutes.
- Layer the casserole:
- Spread half the chopped cabbage in the baking dish.
- Top with all the cooked rice.
- Add the meat sauce evenly over the rice.
- Finish with remaining cabbage.
- Bake covered with foil for 45 minutes. Uncover, add cheese (if using), and bake 15 more minutes until bubbly.
- Rest 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Expert Tips for Success
✅ Skip pre-cooking the cabbage – It softens perfectly while baking.
🔥 Boost umami – Add a dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire to the meat.
🧊 Make-ahead – Assemble up to 24 hours ahead; bake when ready.
❄ Freezer-friendly – Portion and freeze for up to 3 months.
Creative Variations
1. Low-Carb/Keto
- Replace rice with riced cauliflower.
- Use a sugar-free tomato sauce.
2. Vegetarian/Vegan
- Swap meat for lentils or mushrooms.
- Use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.
3. Spicy Version
- Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
4. Ukrainian-Inspired
- Mix in ½ cup sour cream to the sauce for creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
🍽 Pair with:
- Crusty bread or garlic knots.
- A crisp green salad with dill dressing.
- Pickled vegetables for tangy contrast.
Why This Casserole Wins
❤️ Family-friendly – Kids and adults love it.
⏱ Weeknight easy – Minimal active cooking time.
🍲 Comfort in a dish – Warm, savory, and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
Cabbage Roll Casserole is the ultimate comfort food hack—delivering all the nostalgia of stuffed cabbage without the fuss. Perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or meal prep, this dish is sure to become a regular in your rotation.