Best Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe

Looking for a comforting, easy-to-make meal? This Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe combines traditional stuffed cabbage flavors with the convenience of a casserole. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe

This recipe takes the labor-intensive process of making traditional stuffed cabbage rolls and simplifies it into a quick and easy casserole. You’ll get all the hearty flavors of cabbage, beef, and marinara sauce without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile—adaptable to low-carb, gluten-free, or dairy-free diets with just a few tweaks.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 1.5 teaspoons sea salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups cauliflower rice (or cooked white rice)
• 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 6 cups chopped cabbage (about ¾ head)
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (omit for paleo, dairy-free, or Whole30)

How to Make Cabbage Roll Casserole

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This step builds the flavor foundation for the dish.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with sea salt and black pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. This ensures even cooking and a perfect texture.

Step 3: Combine with Rice

Mix in the cauliflower rice (or white rice) and Italian seasoning. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes to combine flavors. The rice adds heartiness to the dish, making it filling and satisfying.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, layer the beef mixture, chopped cabbage, and marinara sauce. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with marinara sauce on top.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. For a dairy-free option, skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Helpful Tips for Success

• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor. If needed, substitute with garlic powder.
• Cauliflower Rice: Thaw and drain frozen cauliflower rice to prevent extra moisture. This ensures your casserole isn’t watery.
• Cabbage: Chop cabbage into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy serving. You can also blanch the cabbage briefly for a softer texture.
• Layering: Ensure even layers of cabbage, meat, and sauce for balanced flavors in every bite.

Substitutions and Variations

• Ground Meat: Substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Ground pork also works well for a richer flavor.
• Rice Alternatives: Use quinoa, brown rice, or even farro instead of cauliflower rice if you’re not aiming for a low-carb dish.
• Dairy-Free: Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Vegetarian: Swap ground beef for lentils or plant-based ground meat. Use vegetable stock instead of beef stock for added depth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Cabbage Roll Casserole ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from the fridge.

Can I freeze this Cabbage Roll Casserole? Absolutely. Assemble and freeze it tightly wrapped for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

What type of marinara sauce works best? Use a high-quality marinara sauce with minimal added sugar. Homemade marinara is also a great option for a fresher taste.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well, making it ideal for meal prep.

Why Cabbage Roll Casserole is Perfect for Meal Prep

This casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly practical. It’s easy to make in large batches, freezes well, and reheats beautifully. Whether you’re prepping meals for a busy week or stocking your freezer with ready-to-eat dishes, this casserole is a lifesaver.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approx. 350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 10g (depending on rice choice)
• Fat: 20g

Final Thoughts

Try this Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe today and enjoy a delicious, fuss-free meal that everyone will love. Its rich flavors, simple preparation, and adaptability make it a standout dish in any home kitchen. Happy cooking!