ONE POT CABBAGE CASSEROLE
Are you a fan of cabbage? Some people love it, while others are still warming up to its unique flavor. My husband and I are definitely in the former camp. We both grew up enjoying this One-Pot Cabbage Casserole, a comforting dish packed with ground beef, rice, tomatoes, cheese, and, of course, cabbage. It’s a breeze to make on any night of the week and even special enough to serve on a Sunday dinner. Best of all, it all comes together in one pot, saving you time and effort without needing to bake it in the oven.
When it comes to cabbage, I’m still working on convincing my kids. Admittedly, I had to serve their portions sans cabbage, but once I did, they gave it rave reviews. We’re making progress, one step at a time.
I hope there are some cabbage fans in your household, and if not, this might just be the recipe to win them over! You’re going to love it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This One-Pot Cabbage Casserole is not only easy to make, but it’s also a deliciously hearty meal that brings together a variety of flavors and textures. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Plus, there’s minimal cleanup since it’s all made in one pot!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. ground beef
- Salt and pepper or Creole seasoning
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup rice, uncooked
- 3 large handfuls of roughly chopped cabbage
- 1 8 oz. can tomato sauce
- 2 cups of water (use the tomato sauce can twice)
- 1 14 oz. can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Colby Jack recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the ground beef with salt, pepper, or Creole seasoning and brown it along with the chopped onion in a large pot. Drain off any excess grease.
- Once the onions are translucent, add the rice, cabbage, tomato sauce, water, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the cabbage is tender. Avoid lifting the lid before 20 minutes to ensure the rice cooks properly.
- Once cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and cover the pot again for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
Tips for Success
Ensure you don’t lift the lid too early during the simmering process, as this may affect the rice’s cooking. Also, adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences, adding more spice if desired.
Additional Tips and Variations
If you prefer a spicier kick, substitute the diced tomatoes with a can of Rotel. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to find your perfect flavor combination.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This dish is a great source of protein and contains essential vitamins from the cabbage and tomatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking to reduce the fat content.
Can I prepare this in advance? Absolutely! This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep.
What can I serve with this casserole? It pairs nicely with a simple green salad or some crusty bread.
Conclusion
I invite you to try this One-Pot Cabbage Casserole and see for yourself how delicious and easy it is. Whether you’re a cabbage enthusiast or a hesitant eater, this dish is bound to win you over. Don’t forget to share your cooking experiences or any creative twists you add to the recipe!