A cozy, cheesy, and hearty cabbage casserole made with layers of tender cabbage, savory meat sauce, and melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
1 medium green cabbage, chopped
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1½ cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
1½ cups cooked white rice
1½ cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tbsp oil (for sautéing)
Optional: ½ cup sour cream or 1 egg
Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sauté chopped cabbage in oil with a pinch of salt until soft, 10–12 minutes. Set aside.
In same pan, brown ground beef with diced onion. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
Stir in tomato sauce, rice, seasonings, and sour cream (if using). Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
Layer half the cabbage, then the meat mixture, then remaining cabbage in the dish. Top with shredded cheese.
Cover with foil and bake 25 minutes. Uncover and bake 15–20 more minutes until bubbly and golden.
For firmer slices, stir 1 beaten egg into the meat mixture.
Swap rice for cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.