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–+ servings
Cabbage Leaf Casserole
Cabbage Beef Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that became popular in mid-century American home kitchens for its simplicity and satisfying flavor. The recipe combines tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, rice, and tomato soup into a baked casserole, creating an all-in-one meal that’s budget-friendly and filling. It was likely inspired by traditional cabbage roll recipes from Eastern European cuisine but simplified for busy home cooks in the 1950s and 60s. The tomato soup adds a nostalgic sweetness, while the baked cabbage gives the dish a rustic aroma. This casserole has long been a staple at family dinners, potlucks, and cozy Sunday meals, embodying the warmth of old-fashioned home cooking.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine eastern european
Servings 8
Calories 285 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 head cabbage (small)
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion (small, chopped)
  • ½ cup cooked rice
  • 10 ¾ oz condensed tomato soup
  • 1 can water (use soup can to measure)
  • salt (to taste)
  • pepper (to taste)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

  • Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Place it evenly in a greased baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onions

  • In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and chopped onion until the meat is cooked through. Drain excess fat.

Step 3: Combine Meat and Rice

  • Stir the cooked rice into the beef and onion mixture until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

  • Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the chopped cabbage in the baking dish.

Step 5: Add the Sauce

  • In a bowl, combine the tomato soup with one can of water. Pour this mixture evenly over the entire casserole.

Step 6: Bake

  • Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour. Check halfway through and add a bit more water if the casserole seems dry.

Step 7: Serve

  • Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips

  • Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease in the casserole.
  • Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.
  • Add garlic or herbs (thyme, parsley, dill) for extra flavor.
  • Mix in green peppers or celery with the onions for added vegetables.
  • Use uncooked rice with extra liquid as a variation, extending baking time.
  • Top with a little shredded cheese during the last 10 minutes for a cheesy version.
  • Add a splash of Worcestershire or soy sauce to the meat for depth of flavor.
  • Make ahead and refrigerate unbaked, then bake when ready to serve.
  • Serve with sour cream or crusty bread to round out the meal.

Nutrition

Calories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 20gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 620mgPotassium: 620mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 950IUVitamin C: 36mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 2.5mg
Keyword cabbage casserole, comfort food, family dinner, ground beef, oven baked, rice casserole, vintage recipe, weeknight dinner
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