Cabbage casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for satisfying your hunger while providing a healthy twist on classic comfort foods. Loaded with flavorful ingredients and simple to prepare, this casserole is a great choice for a family dinner, meal prep, or a potluck gathering. It combines the mild, sweet flavor of cabbage with savory meats, cheeses, and seasonings, resulting in a dish that’s both nutritious and indulgent. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a delicious Loaded Cabbage Casserole that will become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To create a loaded cabbage casserole that’s both hearty and flavorful, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 large head of cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes (with or without green chilies, depending on your preference)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend of your choice)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature for even baking.
- Prepare the Cabbage:
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Blanch the chopped cabbage by boiling it for 3-4 minutes until it starts to soften. Drain and set aside. Alternatively, you can sauté the cabbage in a large skillet with a bit of olive oil until slightly tender.
- Cook the Meat Mixture:
- While the cabbage is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon and cooking until browned. Season with dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef mixture, blanched cabbage, cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and sour cream. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish. Pour the cabbage mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Why This Recipe Works
Loaded cabbage casserole is a versatile and satisfying dish that combines the crunch and mild flavor of cabbage with a range of hearty ingredients. The cabbage provides a great base that absorbs the flavors of the meat and seasonings while adding nutritional value. The addition of rice and cheese makes the casserole more filling and adds a creamy texture that complements the tender cabbage.
Variations and Tips
- Protein Options: Feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a different twist. You can also add cooked sausage or bacon for extra flavor.
- Vegetable Add-ins: To boost the veggie content, consider adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots. These can be sautéed with the onions and garlic or mixed into the casserole for added texture and nutrients.
- Low-Carb Version: For a lower-carb option, use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice and reduce or omit the cheese. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter touch.
- Make-Ahead and Freezing: This casserole is great for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well—just assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
In Summary
Loaded cabbage casserole is a versatile, nutritious, and hearty dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table. With its combination of tender cabbage, savory meat, creamy cheese, and zesty seasonings, it’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a crowd, this casserole is a meal prep hero and a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.