Description
If you love the comforting flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls but don’t have the time or patience to roll them one by one, this Italian Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is your new go-to dish. It’s a cozy, one-pan meal loaded with hearty beef, tender cabbage, Italian herbs, and a rich tomato sauce—layered like a lasagna but without the pasta. Just bake and enjoy!
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Ingredients
For the Casserole:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and turkey)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1½ tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 medium head green cabbage, chopped (about 6–7 cups)
1½ cups cooked white or brown rice
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
1 cup shredded mozzarella
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Toppings:
Fresh basil or parsley
Extra cheese for topping
Drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Cook until browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage
Add chopped cabbage to the pan and sauté 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly wilted.
Step 4: Stir in Tomatoes and Rice
Add diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, and cooked rice.
Mix well and let simmer for 5 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Top evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 7: Rest & Serve
Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Top with chopped basil or parsley and enjoy!
Notes
Chop cabbage evenly – Helps it cook uniformly
Pre-cook the rice – Use leftovers or frozen rice to save time
Balance the acidity – A bit of sugar rounds out the tomato flavor
Add veggies – Bell peppers or mushrooms go great in the mix
Make it cheesy – Don’t be shy with the mozzarella!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired / Comfort Food