This hearty casserole brings you all the flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls—without the fuss!
Tender layers of cabbage, savory ground beef, and a creamy tomato sauce come together under a blanket of melty cheese for the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for weeknights or family gatherings!
Ingredients
For the casserole:
- 1 small cabbage, shredded
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 large onion, chopped
- ½ cup red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
For the creamy tomato sauce:
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup reduced-fat sour cream
For topping:
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (or your favorite cheese)
Instructions
- Prep the Oven & Dish
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Layer the Cabbage
Spread the shredded cabbage evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. - Cook the Beef Mixture
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef (or turkey) with chopped onion and red bell pepper.
- Drain excess grease.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, sugar, and optional caraway seeds.
- Assemble the Casserole
- Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the cabbage.
- In a small bowl, whisk together tomato sauce and sour cream. Spread evenly over beef layer.
- Bake
- Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, and bake for 15–20 minutes more, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve & Enjoy
Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing into hearty squares.
Tips & Variations:
- Swap Swiss cheese for mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a richer, deeper taste.
- Make it low-carb by reducing or skipping the sugar.
Quick Info:
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hr 15 mins
- Total Time: 1 hr 35 mins
- Servings: 6