If you love the comforting flavors of cabbage rolls but don’t have time for the traditional preparation, this unstuffed cabbage roll casserole is the perfect solution. It delivers all the hearty, savory goodness of cabbage rolls without the extra effort. Packed with tender cabbage, seasoned meat, tomatoes, and rice, this dish is simple, satisfying, and ideal for chilly nights. Whether cooked in the oven or a slow cooker, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole
- 1 tablespoon oil (optional, for chicken or pork) (15 milliliters)
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef, chicken, or pork (680 grams)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1/2 cup quick-cooking rice (90 grams)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (28 oz) (800 grams)
- 1 can plain tomato sauce (8 oz) (225 grams)
- 1 teaspoon salt (5 grams)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (2 grams)
- 1 small cabbage, chopped (approximately 1 1/2 pounds or 680 grams)
- 3/4 cup water (180 milliliters)
How to Make Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole
Cook the meat and onion
Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat if using chicken or pork. Add the ground meat and diced onion, cooking until the meat is nearly browned and the onion is tender.
Add rice and garlic
Stir in the quick-cooking rice and minced garlic. Cook for an additional minute to release the garlic’s flavor.
Incorporate tomatoes and seasoning
Add the canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Mix thoroughly to combine.
Add cabbage
Stir in the chopped cabbage, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Add water and bring to a boil
Pour in the water and stir. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Transfer and cook
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a slow cooker. Cover and bake in the preheated oven for 2-3 hours. Alternatively, cook in a slow cooker on low for 6-7 hours.
Serve and enjoy
Serve the casserole hot, accompanied by crusty bread or rolls for a complete and satisfying meal.
Why This Recipe Works
This unstuffed cabbage roll casserole simplifies a classic dish without sacrificing flavor. The combination of tender cabbage, juicy meat, tangy tomatoes, and hearty rice creates a comforting and wholesome meal. The slow cooking process melds the flavors beautifully, making this casserole perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Unstuffed cabbage roll casserole is a delicious and stress-free way to enjoy the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls. Whether you bake it in the oven or let it simmer in a slow cooker, this dish is guaranteed to warm you up on a chilly evening. With its simple preparation and rich, comforting taste, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try it tonight and savor the flavors!
