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lazy cabbage roll casserole

lazy cabbage roll casserole
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This lazy cabbage roll casserole is a go-to weeknight savior, offering all the classic, savory flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in a convenient, deconstructed casserole form. It's a hearty, comforting meal that's easy to prepare, perfect for busy families, and satisfies even picky eaters without the fuss of rolling individual leaves. The dish features savory ground meat, tender cabbage, and a flavorful tomato sauce, making it a warm and satisfying embrace.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 pounds Ground Beef (80/20)
1 medium head (about 3 pounds) White Cabbage, cored and shredded
1 large Onion, chopped
3 cloves Garlic, minced
1 cup Uncooked White Rice (long grain)
1 (28-ounce) can Tomato Sauce
1 (14.5-ounce) can Diced Tomatoes, undrained
1 cup Beef Broth
2 tablespoons Brown Sugar (or to taste)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
1 teaspoon Salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper, or to taste
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (optional, for extra depth)
1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Core and shred your cabbage. Chop the onion and mince the garlic
  2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat
  3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and smoked paprika (if using), cooking for another minute until fragrant
  4. Stir in the uncooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer
  5. In a large 9×13-inch baking dish, spread about half of the shredded cabbage evenly across the bottom
  6. Pour the entire simmering meat and rice mixture over the layer of cabbage in the baking dish. Spread it out evenly
  7. Cover the meat mixture with the remaining shredded cabbage. Press it down gently so everything is somewhat submerged in the sauce
  8. Tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 60 minutes
  9. Remove the foil. Continue baking for another 20-30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender, the rice is fully cooked, and the casserole is bubbly and slightly caramelized on top
  10. Let the lazy cabbage roll casserole rest for 10-15 minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm

Notes

Don't Skip the Simmer: Simmering the meat and sauce mixture on the stovetop before baking is crucial. It kickstarts the cooking of the rice and melds the flavors, ensuring everything cooks evenly in the oven.

Rest is Best: Allow the casserole to rest for at least 10-15 minutes after baking. This allows the rice to fully absorb any remaining liquid and the casserole to firm up, making it easier to serve.

Storage: Cooled leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. This casserole is also very freezer-friendly and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://fabiloustaste.com/lazy-cabbage-roll-casserole/