Layered Cabbage Roll Casserole with Magic Sauce

This Layered Cabbage Roll Casserole delivers all the cozy flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling each one. Tender cabbage, savory ground beef, rice, and a rich tomato-based “magic sauce” are layered and baked to perfection. It’s a satisfying, one-dish meal perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 1 medium head green cabbage, shredded

• 2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice

• 24 ounces crushed tomatoes

• 15 ounces tomato sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• Optional: 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar and 1/3 cup brown sugar (for balanced sauce)

Optional Extras

• 1–2 cups shredded cheese for topping

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage

Shred the cabbage and spread it evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch casserole dish to form the first layer.

Step 3: Brown the Meat

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease.

Step 4: Season and Combine

Stir in the rice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the crushed tomatoes and mix thoroughly with the meat and rice.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

Spread half of the meat and tomato mixture over the cabbage in the baking dish.

Step 6: Add Sauce

In a bowl, combine the tomato sauce with vinegar and brown sugar (if using). Pour half of this sauce evenly over the meat mixture.

Step 7: Repeat Layers

Add another layer of cabbage, then the remaining meat mixture, and then the rest of the sauce on top.

Step 8: Bake

Cover the casserole with foil and bake for about 90 minutes, or until the cabbage and rice are tender.

Step 9: Finish and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking. If desired, sprinkle with shredded cheese and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for Best Results

• Use raw cabbage and uncooked rice so they cook together in the casserole and absorb the sauce as it bakes.

• Cover with foil for most of the baking time to keep moisture in, then remove it toward the end for a richer top.

• Add a touch of sugar and vinegar to balance the acidity of the tomato sauce and create a “magic” flavor boost in the sauce. (Optional but highly recommended.)

• Let the casserole rest before serving so the layers set and it slices more easily.

Variations

• Cheesy twist: Add shredded cheese on top during the last 10–15 minutes of baking.

• Mix meats: Use a combination of ground beef and pork for richer flavor.

• Extra veggies: Add diced carrots or bell peppers to the meat mixture for extra texture.

• Sauerkraut layer: For a tangy version, add sauerkraut between layers.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.