Description
A delightful and nourishing casserole that combines tender cabbage, flavorful seasoned meat, and gooey cheese, perfect for warming your heart and home.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium green cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This crucial first step ensures that your casserole will have the perfect cooking environment as it bakes. While the oven heats, take a moment to prepare your casserole dish by lightly greasing it—this will help keep your delicious creation from sticking.
- In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and add your ground beef or turkey. Cook it until it is nicely browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon to ensure even cooking. This process not only imparts flavor but also helps to render the fat from the meat. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the pan to create a healthier dish.
- With the meat cooked, it’s time to introduce the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté these ingredients together for about 2-3 minutes. Watch closely as the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, infusing your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
- Next, stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce from the can. Adding your spices—paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper—creates a symphony of flavors. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes; this step will help meld the flavors together beautifully.
- Begin the layering process in your prepared casserole dish. Start with half of the chopped cabbage, forming the first layer. Follow this with half of the cooked rice and half of the savory meat mixture. Repeat these layers to build a hearty construct that will cook evenly.
- Cover the casserole dish with foil to keep moisture in and allow it to bake for 35 minutes. This initial covered baking will help the cabbage soften and cook properly. After this time, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese liberally over the top. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once the baking time is complete, take your casserole out of the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to settle. Finally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before diving in!
Notes
For enhanced flavor, consider simmering the meat mixture longer to deepen the taste. To reduce prep time, prepare the components in advance, storing them separately in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 25 g