Deconstructed Cabbage Roll Casserole: All the Flavor, Half the Fuss!

Are you a fan of classic cabbage rolls but dread the tedious process of rolling them? Then you’re in for a treat! This deconstructed cabbage roll casserole recipe gives you all the delicious flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the time-consuming effort. It’s a hearty, comforting, and surprisingly easy meal perfect for busy weeknights.

This recipe simplifies the whole process by layering the key ingredients—ground meat, cabbage, rice, and a tangy tomato sauce—into a casserole dish. The result is a flavorful and satisfying dish that captures the essence of cabbage rolls in a fraction of the time. Get ready to experience a new way to enjoy this classic comfort food!

## Why You’ll Love This Deconstructed Cabbage Roll Casserole

* **Effortless Preparation:** Say goodbye to individual rolling! This casserole is assembled in layers, making it incredibly easy to prepare.
* **Classic Cabbage Roll Flavor:** All the familiar flavors you love – savory meat, tender cabbage, and a tangy tomato sauce – are present in every bite.
* **Hearty and Comforting:** This casserole is a filling and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
* **Versatile:** Easily customizable to your preferences – swap the meat, adjust the spices, or add other vegetables.
* **Freezer-Friendly:** This casserole freezes well, making it a great make-ahead meal for busy weeks.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious deconstructed cabbage roll casserole:

* **Ground Meat:** 1.5 pounds of ground beef is a great starting point, but you can also use ground turkey, ground pork, or a combination.
* **Cabbage:** 1 large head of green cabbage, shredded or chopped.
* **Rice:** 1 cup of uncooked long-grain rice. This will cook in the casserole, absorbing the delicious flavors.
* **Onion:** 1 medium yellow onion, chopped.
* **Garlic:** 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced.
* **Canned Diced Tomatoes:** 28 ounces of canned diced tomatoes, undrained.
* **Tomato Sauce:** 15 ounces of tomato sauce.
* **Tomato Paste:** 2 tablespoons of tomato paste.
* **Beef Broth:** 1 cup of beef broth (or vegetable broth).
* **Worcestershire Sauce:** 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce adds a depth of savory flavor.
* **Apple Cider Vinegar:** 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar) provides a touch of tanginess.
* **Dried Thyme:** 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.
* **Dried Oregano:** 1 teaspoon of dried oregano.
* **Smoked Paprika:** 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika (optional, but highly recommended for a smoky flavor).
* **Salt and Black Pepper:** To taste.
* **Optional Toppings:** Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend), fresh parsley, sour cream.

## Equipment Needed

* Large skillet or pot
* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Cutting board and knife
* Measuring cups and spoons

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create your own delicious deconstructed cabbage roll casserole:

**1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:**

* In a large skillet or pot, brown the ground meat over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
* Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
* Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

**2. Add the Sauce Ingredients:**

* Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, dried thyme, dried oregano, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper.
* Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.

**3. Prepare the Cabbage:**

* While the meat sauce is simmering, prepare the cabbage. If you haven’t already, shred or chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. You can use a knife, a mandoline, or a food processor with a shredding attachment.

**4. Assemble the Casserole:**

* Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
* Spread half of the shredded cabbage evenly over the bottom of the dish.
* Sprinkle the uncooked rice evenly over the cabbage layer.
* Pour the meat sauce mixture over the rice layer, spreading it evenly.
* Top with the remaining shredded cabbage.

**5. Bake the Casserole:**

* Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
* Bake for 1 hour.
* Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the rice is cooked through. The liquid should be mostly absorbed.

**6. Let it Rest and Serve:**

* Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to further meld and the casserole to set slightly.
* Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, fresh parsley, or a dollop of sour cream.

## Tips for the Perfect Deconstructed Cabbage Roll Casserole

* **Don’t Overcook the Cabbage:** You want the cabbage to be tender but not mushy. Check for doneness after the initial baking time and adjust accordingly.
* **Adjust the Liquid:** If the casserole seems dry during baking, add a little more beef broth. If it seems too watery, remove the foil for the last 30 minutes of baking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** The quality of your ingredients will impact the flavor of the casserole. Use good quality ground meat, canned tomatoes, and spices.
* **Customize the Spices:** Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or use different herbs like marjoram or bay leaf.
* **Add Vegetables:** Consider adding other vegetables to the casserole, such as carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Sauté them along with the onion before adding the other ingredients.
* **Cheese it Up:** A generous layer of shredded cheese on top of the casserole during the last few minutes of baking adds a delicious cheesy element.

## Variations and Substitutions

This deconstructed cabbage roll casserole is incredibly versatile. Here are a few variations and substitutions you can try:

* **Meat:** Substitute ground turkey, ground pork, or a combination of meats for the ground beef.
* **Rice:** Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier option. Keep in mind that brown rice will take longer to cook, so you may need to adjust the baking time.
* **Vegetarian:** Omit the meat and use lentils or mushrooms as a protein source. Add extra vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers.
* **Sauce:** Experiment with different tomato sauces, such as marinara or arrabbiata. You can also add a splash of red wine to the sauce for a richer flavor.
* **Spices:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or use different herbs like marjoram or bay leaf.
* **Sweetness:** Some people like a touch of sweetness in their cabbage rolls. Add a tablespoon or two of brown sugar or honey to the sauce.
* **Smoked Sausage:** Add sliced smoked sausage to the casserole for a smoky flavor boost.
* **Creamy Version:** Stir in a cup of sour cream or cream cheese after baking for a creamy and decadent version.

## Serving Suggestions

This deconstructed cabbage roll casserole is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to make it even better:

* **Side Salad:** Serve with a simple green salad or a chopped salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
* **Crusty Bread:** A loaf of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
* **Mashed Potatoes:** For an extra comforting meal, serve with a side of mashed potatoes.
* **Garlic Bread:** Garlic bread adds a touch of garlicky goodness to the meal.
* **Cornbread:** A slice of cornbread complements the savory flavors of the casserole.
* **Pickles:** Dill pickles or sauerkraut add a tangy contrast to the richness of the casserole.

## Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

* **Make-Ahead:** You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add 15-20 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
* **Storage:** Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
* **Freezing:** This casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

*Note: Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.*

* Calories: 450-550 per serving
* Protein: 30-40 grams
* Fat: 25-35 grams
* Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams

## Deconstructed Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe

**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 1 hour 15 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 1.5 pounds ground beef
* 1 large yellow onion, chopped
* 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 large head green cabbage, shredded or chopped
* 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
* 28 ounces canned diced tomatoes, undrained
* 15 ounces tomato sauce
* 2 tablespoons tomato paste
* 1 cup beef broth
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
* Salt and black pepper, to taste
* Optional toppings: shredded cheese, fresh parsley, sour cream

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain excess grease. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Spread half of the shredded cabbage in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle uncooked rice over the cabbage. Pour meat sauce mixture over the rice. Top with remaining cabbage.
5. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove foil and bake for 15-20 minutes more, or until cabbage is tender and rice is cooked through.
6. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with optional toppings.

Enjoy your delicious and easy deconstructed cabbage roll casserole!