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Italian Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

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A hearty and comforting casserole with layers of tender cabbage, savory ground beef, rice, and rich tomato sauce, topped with melted cheese. This simple and flavorful dish brings all the goodness of traditional cabbage rolls without the extra work!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 medium head of cabbage, leaves separated
  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

 

  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven:

    • Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.

  2. Prepare Cabbage Leaves:

    • Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Blanch cabbage leaves for 2 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.

  3. Cook the Filling:

    • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
    • Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
    • Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

  4. Assemble the Casserole:

    • Layer cabbage leaves on the bottom of the baking dish, followed by half of the beef mixture. Repeat layers, ending with cabbage on top.

  5. Add Cheese:

    • Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the top.

  6. Bake:

    • Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
    • Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

  7. Serve:

    • Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Notes

  • Meat Substitutions: Ground turkey or Italian sausage can be used for a different flavor.
  • Low-Carb Option: Swap rice for cauliflower rice to reduce carbs.
  • Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate overnight before baking.

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/italian-unstuffed-cabbage-roll-casserole/