Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

Introduction

Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, warming, and brimming with home-cooked flavor. Instead of rolling each cabbage leaf one by one, this casserole brings together all the flavors of classic stuffed cabbage in a much simpler, layered dish. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even make-ahead freezer meals. With tender cabbage, juicy ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce baked to perfection, this recipe is both nourishing and satisfying.

My recipe story

I grew up with stuffed cabbage rolls being a staple on our dinner table, especially during the colder months. While my family adored them, I always found the rolling and tucking process to be time-consuming, especially when cooking for a crowd. That’s when I started experimenting with a deconstructed version, layering all the same ingredients into a casserole. The result was just as comforting, even more flavorful, and far easier to make. Over time, this Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole became a go-to recipe that I could whip up on busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredient breakdown

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. The star of the dish is the chopped cabbage, which becomes tender and slightly sweet when baked. Ground beef provides the hearty base, and when combined with tomato sauce, the flavor deepens into that nostalgic taste reminiscent of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls.

The canned tomato sauce ensures a rich, consistent flavor that coats every bite, while basic seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic balance and enhance the dish. The casserole layers mimic the structure of lasagna, making it easy to portion and serve. While rice is sometimes added to cabbage rolls, this recipe allows you to keep it simple or add rice directly into the mix for a more filling version.

Equipment you’ll need

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Mixing bowls
• Large casserole dish (9×13 recommended)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Foil for covering while baking

Step-by-step directions

1. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until no pink remains. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain off excess grease to prevent the casserole from becoming too heavy. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for depth of flavor.
2. Prepare the cabbage: Wash the cabbage thoroughly, then chop it into bite-sized pieces. You want medium chunks—not too small, as the cabbage will cook down significantly in the oven. Pat it dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture.
3. Mix the sauce: In a bowl, combine the canned tomato sauce with a pinch of sugar (optional) to balance acidity. Stir in a little Italian seasoning or dried herbs if desired. This simple step ensures your casserole has a balanced, flavorful sauce.
4. Assemble the casserole: In your casserole dish, layer half the chopped cabbage, followed by half the cooked beef, and then half the tomato sauce. Repeat the layers once more. This lasagna-like approach ensures even distribution of flavors throughout.
5. Bake: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 60 minutes. The cabbage should be tender, and the flavors well combined. If desired, uncover for the last 10 minutes of baking to allow a slight caramelization on top.
6. Rest and serve: Once removed from the oven, allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes portioning easier. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra indulgence.

Variations & substitutions

One of the beauties of this casserole is its flexibility. For a lighter option, swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. If you’re vegetarian, substitute lentils or crumbled tofu for the meat and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for heartiness.

Want a richer flavor? Mix in a can of diced tomatoes along with the tomato sauce or add a layer of cooked rice for a more filling, traditional twist. For a little kick, stir in crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of smoked paprika. You can also sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar on top for a cheesy crust.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

This casserole stores beautifully, making it a meal-prep champion. Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For longer storage, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

If you want to prepare ahead, assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding about 10–15 minutes to the cook time. This flexibility makes it a lifesaver on busy weeknights.

Serving ideas & pairings

This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal. A slice of warm crusty bread or garlic toast is perfect for soaking up the rich tomato sauce. A crisp side salad with tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish, while roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts make a wholesome addition. For drinks, try serving it with a light red wine such as Pinot Noir, or keep it family-friendly with iced tea or sparkling water.

FAQ

Can I add rice to this recipe?
Yes! Stir in 1–2 cups of cooked rice along with the beef for a more traditional cabbage roll flavor.

Do I need to boil the cabbage first?
No pre-boiling is necessary—the oven does all the work, making this casserole easier than rolled versions.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely. Use lentils, quinoa, or plant-based crumbles instead of beef for a hearty vegetarian option.

How do I keep the casserole from being too watery?
Be sure to drain the beef well, pat the cabbage dry, and uncover the dish for the last 10–15 minutes of baking if needed.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it up to a day ahead and refrigerate before baking. Just extend the bake time slightly when cooking from cold.

Final thoughts

Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is the perfect solution when you crave the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but don’t have the time or patience for all that rolling. It’s hearty, delicious, and incredibly easy to adapt to your preferences. Whether you’re feeding a big family, stocking your freezer, or simply wanting a cozy dinner to end the day, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try, and you’ll see just how simple and rewarding comfort food can be.

Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 90 minutes
• Yield: 8–10 servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A comforting, hearty casserole with tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and rich tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners.

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Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef

• 3 ½ pounds chopped cabbage
• 1 (29 ounce) can tomato sauce

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Optional: 1 cup cooked rice

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.

4. In a large casserole dish, layer half of the chopped cabbage, followed by half of the beef mixture, then half of the tomato sauce.

5. Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage, beef, and tomato sauce.
6. Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 60 minutes until cabbage is tender.

7. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes if desired for a slightly caramelized top.

8. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
   

Notes

 Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 70 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American