Ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped (about 6-7 cups)
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
For the Topping (Optional):
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cabbage:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Steam or blanch the chopped cabbage in boiling water for 5 minutes, until slightly tender. Drain well and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
3. Combine Ingredients:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
- Mix in the cooked rice.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cabbage, then spread the beef and rice mixture evenly over the top.
- Add the remaining cabbage on top and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
5. Optional Topping:
- If using breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese layer for extra crunch.
6. Bake:
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Pair it with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips:
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and bake it the next day for convenience.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground meat with lentils or plant-based crumbles.
- Cheese Variations: Try gouda, Swiss, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
Enjoy your warm and savory Cabbage Casserole, a true comfort food classic! 🥬✨