Savory Italian Cabbage Roll Casserole
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup cooked rice
1 small head green cabbage, chopped
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Preheat & Sauté: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat.
Add Flavor: Stir in onion, garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Make the Sauce: Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in cooked rice and remove from heat.
Assemble: In a greased 9x13 baking dish, layer half of the chopped cabbage. Spread half of the meat mixture on top. Repeat layers with remaining cabbage and meat sauce.
Bake: Cover tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and return to oven uncovered for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Garnish & Serve: Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and enjoy!
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 55 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes Kcal: 380 per serving Servings: 6 servings