If you’re craving all the nostalgic, homey goodness of classic cabbage rolls but not the hours of rolling and fussing, Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is your answer. This incredibly comforting dish layers all those essential flavors—tender cabbage, savory beef and pork, perfectly cooked rice, and plenty of tomato sauce—together in one weeknight-friendly bake. Bubbly with cheese and packed with robust flavor, this one-pan wonder instantly transforms humble ingredients into the ultimate family favorite. Trust me, it’s as magical at the potluck table as it is as a cozy Sunday supper.

Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The true magic of Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole lies in its simple, honest ingredients. Each one brings something important to the dish—whether it’s richness, depth, or a pop of color—so don’t overlook these everyday kitchen staples.

Ground beef: Brings heartiness and classic flavor to the base of the casserole.
Ground pork (optional): Adds juicy richness; feel free to substitute with more beef if you prefer.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing and infusing a gentle, savory background.
Onion (chopped): Provides sweetness and aromatic depth to the filling.
Garlic (minced): Lends bold, irresistible fragrance and flavor.
Green cabbage (chopped): The star! Cooks down to tender bites layered throughout every forkful.
Uncooked white rice: Absorbs all the tomato flavor and keeps the casserole cohesive.
Crushed tomatoes (canned): Forms the juicy, tangy base for the sauce.
Tomato sauce (canned): Adds body and silkiness to the entire mixture.
Tomato paste: Brings an extra punch of concentrated tomato goodness.
Dried oregano: Signature herb that breathes warmth into each bite.
Paprika: Offers subtle smokiness and a gorgeous color boost.
Salt & black pepper: Essentials for rounding out all the savory flavors.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to gooey perfection over the top.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish to every scoop.
Fresh chopped parsley (optional): Delivers a vibrant, fresh garnish to serve.

How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your chopped onion and garlic, letting them sizzle until beautifully softened and fragrant—usually about 3 to 4 minutes. This is where those cozy, mouthwatering aromas begin!

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Next, add the ground beef (and pork, if using) to the skillet. Break it up gently with a spoon and let it cook until it’s nicely browned and all traces of pink are gone. This step really builds the foundation of flavor for your Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole.

Step 3: Wilt the Cabbage

Now, toss in all your chopped cabbage. Stir well as it cooks down and softens for about 5 minutes. The cabbage takes on loads of savory flavor from the meat and onions, creating those classic cabbage roll vibes without the rolling!

Step 4: Combine Rice and Sauces

Scatter the uncooked white rice over the skillet, then pour in your crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and a spoonful of tomato paste. Sprinkle in the oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure the rice gets well-coated and the seasonings are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then transfer the entire mixture into it. Spread it out evenly and cover the dish tightly with foil. Slide it into a preheated 375°F oven and bake for 45 minutes—enough time for the rice to soak up all the wonderful tomato flavor!

Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

Carefully remove the foil and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses generously over the casserole. Return it to the oven uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is beautifully golden.

Step 7: Rest and Garnish

Set the casserole aside to rest for 10 minutes after baking—this makes serving so much easier and helps the flavors settle together. Finish with a flurry of chopped parsley if you like, for a fresh, colorful touch.

How to Serve Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

Garnishes

This casserole practically begs for a little green on top—fresh parsley is classic, but dill or even a sprinkle of chives can make each plate extra special. A dollop of sour cream is also a dreamy, creamy addition.

Side Dishes

Serve your Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole alongside roasted root vegetables, simple steamed green beans, or a crisp cucumber salad. Buttery mashed potatoes pair wonderfully too, soaking up every bit of that delicious tomato sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For family-style comfort, bring the casserole to the table straight from the oven in its baking dish. Hosting a party? Scoop it into individual ramekins, or top each portion with extra cheese and pop them under the broiler for a personal cheesy crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole cool completely, then cover tightly in the fridge. Leftovers will keep beautifully for up to 4 days, often tasting even better as the flavors meld.

Freezing

This casserole is truly freezer-friendly! Once cooled, wrap portions or the entire dish well in foil or freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a 350°F oven until hot throughout, about 25 minutes. For a quick option, microwave individual portions until piping hot, adding a splash of tomato sauce if needed to keep things moist.

FAQs

Can I make Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the meat for plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils, and proceed with the recipe as written for a delicious vegetarian twist.

Will brown rice work instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice is a fantastic wholesome option, but be sure to cook it partially or fully before adding to the casserole, as it takes longer to soften than white rice.

Can I assemble Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble everything in your baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the covered baking time since it will be starting cold.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is naturally gluten-free as written—no adjustments are needed! Just double-check your labels on prepared sauces and cheeses to be sure.

What other cheeses can I use for the topping?

If you want to change it up, Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a bit of sharp cheddar are all delicious alternatives for the cheesy crust on top.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as nourishing as it is comforting, you owe it to yourself to make Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole. Whether it’s for your weeknight crowd or a special weekend gathering, you’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears. Give it a try—I have a feeling it’ll become a treasured favorite in your own kitchen, just like it is in mine!

Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 20 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole delivers all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without all the work. Layers of seasoned ground beef, cabbage, and rice are baked in a rich tomato sauce and topped with melted cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat Mixture:

1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb ground pork (optional or substitute with more beef)

Vegetables:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion (chopped)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
4 cups green cabbage (chopped)

Additional Ingredients:

1 cup uncooked white rice
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook Meat: In a large skillet, heat olive oil, then sauté onion and garlic. Add ground beef and pork, cook until browned. Stir in cabbage.
Add Ingredients: Mix in rice, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Transfer to a baking dish.
Bake: Cover and bake for 45 minutes. Uncover, top with cheeses, and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes.
Serve: Let it rest before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.