When the cozy chill of autumn sets in, the kitchen becomes my sanctuary, beckoning for home-cooked comfort. That’s when I found myself whipping up a dish that quickly became a family favorite: Savory Cabbage Hamburger Casserole. Just imagine the mouthwatering aroma of tender cabbage mingling with seasoned ground beef, warm rice, and bursts of juicy tomatoes.
This recipe not only wraps you in warmth but also offers the delightful flexibility to cater to various dietary needs. Whether you’re following a gluten-free diet, going plant-based, or simply looking for lighter, low-carb options, there’s room for creativity. With each spoonful, you’ll savor the layers of texture and flavor, proving that hearty meals don’t have to be complicated.
Prepare to savor an easy, one-pan wonder that not only satisfies your comfort food cravings but also makes busy weeknights a breeze. Your taste buds—and your kitchen—will thank you!
Why is Cabbage Hamburger Casserole a Must-Try?
Comforting warmth: This casserole wraps you in cozy flavors, making it the perfect meal for chilly evenings.
Versatile ingredients: With easy substitutions, you can adapt this dish to suit gluten-free, vegetarian, or low-carb diets.
One-pan convenience: Minimal clean-up means more time to relax after a delicious meal.
Hearty and filling: Bursting with your favorite ingredients, it’s a satisfying dish that leaves everyone smiling.
Meal prep friendly: Make ahead for a quick and delicious dinner option, ideal for busy weeknights!
And if you’re looking for family-friendly comfort food, this casserole is sure to impress!
Cabbage Hamburger Casserole Ingredients
• From the meat to the herbs, every element plays a vital role in crafting the beloved Cabbage Hamburger Casserole.
For the Meat Mixture
- Ground Beef – Main protein source; hearty texture that pairs beautifully with cabbage. Substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat for lighter options.
- Onion – Adds flavor and aroma; no substitutions necessary for that delightful depth.
- Garlic – Provides aromatic flavor; use fresh for a punch or powdered for quick convenience.
For the Vegetables
- Carrots – Introduces sweetness and vibrant color; feel free to switch with bell peppers or zucchini for variety.
- Cabbage – The star of the dish, providing bulk and nutrition; this tender veggie is essential!
For the Grains
- Jasmine Rice – Acts as a binding starch and contributes texture; swap for cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
For the Sauce
- Diced Tomatoes – Adds moisture and acidity; opt for low-sodium options or fresh tomatoes based on preference.
- Beef Broth – Provides depth and moisture; vegetable or chicken broth works well if preferred.
For Seasoning
- Oregano – Infuses herbal notes; can be substituted with Italian seasoning if in a pinch.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor; adjust to fit your taste.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to create a heartwarming Cabbage Hamburger Casserole that everyone will adore!
How to Make Cabbage Hamburger Casserole
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly and becomes that deliciously golden brown.
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Brown 1½ to 2 pounds of ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, chopping it up until it’s no longer pink. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes and releases a savory aroma.
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Sauté 1 diced onion, 2 diced carrots, and 3 minced garlic cloves in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until they’ve softened and mingled beautifully with the beef; season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine the meat mixture with ½ cup of rinsed jasmine rice, 1 can of diced tomatoes, and 1 teaspoon of oregano in a large bowl. Mix well until everything is coated and happy together!
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Fold in 5 cups of diced cabbage, ensuring all the ingredients are well-combined. The cabbage will shrink during cooking, adding lovely texture.
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Transfer the mixture into a 9×13 baking pan and pour 1½ cups of beef broth over the top. This will keep your casserole nice and moist.
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Cover the pan with foil and bake for 1 hour. This helps to steam the dish, ensuring everything melds together perfectly.
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Stir the casserole gently after an hour, then add any additional vegetables you desire—like corn or zucchini—for extra flavor and nutrition.
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Bake uncovered for an additional 30-45 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the rice is perfectly cooked. It should look inviting and delicious!
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Let rest for 15 minutes before serving. For a cheesy delight, top with cheddar cheese during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking!
Optional: Drizzle a little hot sauce on top to give your casserole a flavorful kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cabbage Hamburger Casserole
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Perfectly Browned Meat: Ensure ground beef is fully browned; this prevents raw textures and enhances flavors, making your Cabbage Hamburger Casserole deliciously savory.
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Rice Substitution Guidance: If substituting jasmine rice with cauliflower rice, reduce liquid and adjust cooking time; undercooking the cauliflower will keep it crunchy, while overcooking can lead to mushiness.
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Seal the Moisture: Cover the casserole tightly with foil during the first hour of baking; this keeps it moist and tender, allowing flavors to meld beautifully while preventing drying out.
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Texture Boosting Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with extra veggies like zucchini or corn; these not only add nutrition but also delightful textures that elevate your dish.
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Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for 15 minutes after baking; this helps the flavors set and makes serving easier.
What to Serve with Cabbage Hamburger Casserole?
When the comforting aroma of your casserole fills the kitchen, you might wonder what can perfectly accompany this hearty dish.
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Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the rich flavors of the casserole, creating an irresistible combination.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light and refreshing salad adds a crisp texture and balances the richness of the casserole, elevating your meal experience.
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Roasted Vegetables: Enjoy a medley of seasonal roasted veggies alongside your casserole; their caramelized sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the savory notes of cabbage.
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Garlic Bread: Serve buttery garlic bread for a delightful twist; the aromatic flavors enhance the comfort food experience and are perfect for dipping!
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Applesauce: For a nostalgic touch, consider applesauce on the side. Its sweetness complements the savory dish, adding a comforting contrast.
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Savory Potato Wedges: These crispy, seasoned wedges add a fun texture and flavor that pairs well, making your meal feel even heartier.
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Savory Casserole Variations: Experiment with different versions of the casserole, like adding a layer of cheese on top or mixing in some spicy sausage for a kick!
With these delightful side options, your Cabbage Hamburger Casserole transforms into a well-rounded feast, making every bite a comforting joy!
Make Ahead Options
Savory Cabbage Hamburger Casserole is ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort during busy weeknights. You can prep the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance by assembling all the ingredients, including the chopped cabbage and ground beef mixture, and storing it covered in the refrigerator. Just remember to add the beef broth right before baking to keep the dish moist. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and increase your cooking time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s heated through. With this make-ahead approach, you can savor comforting flavors without the last-minute rush!
Cabbage Hamburger Casserole Variations
Customize your dish with these delightful twists that will add flavor and accommodate your dietary preferences!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the beef broth with a gluten-free version to keep this casserole accommodating for those with dietary restrictions.
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Vegetarian: Swap ground beef for lentils or a plant-based meat alternative to create a hearty, meatless version bursting with flavor.
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Low-Carb: Use cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice; simply adjust the cooking time to keep it perfectly cooked while reducing carbs.
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Extra Veggie Boost: Add in spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers for a vibrant touch, enhancing the dish’s nutrition and color delightfully.
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Spicy Kick: Spice things up by mixing in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce before baking, giving your casserole a fiery flair.
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Herb-Infused: For a flavor boost, fresh thyme or basil can replace oregano, adding aromatic depth that complements the savory ingredients beautifully.
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Creamy Texture: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream before baking for a rich, creamy texture that’ll hug every bite.
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Rice Variation: Swap jasmine rice for brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and a nuttier flavor profile that’s just as satisfying.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your very own perfect Cabbage Hamburger Casserole!
How to Store and Freeze Cabbage Hamburger Casserole
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Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture, ensuring it’s warmed through.
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Freezer: You can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing in the freezer.
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Reheating: For frozen Cabbage Hamburger Casserole, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes until heated through.
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Portioning: Consider dividing the casserole into individual portions before freezing. This makes for quick, satisfying meals on busy days!
Cabbage Hamburger Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of cabbage should I use for the Cabbage Hamburger Casserole?
I highly recommend using green cabbage because of its mild flavor and excellent ability to soften during cooking, blending seamlessly with the other ingredients. Avoid using red cabbage as it’s firmer and may not yield the desired texture for your casserole.
How should I store leftover Cabbage Hamburger Casserole?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it back into the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes. This method helps preserve that satisfying texture.
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Can I freeze Cabbage Hamburger Casserole?
Very much so! After allowing the casserole to cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 30–40 minutes until heated through.
How can I adjust the recipe for dietary considerations?
If you’re looking to make this dish gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free beef broth and replace jasmine rice with cauliflower rice. For vegetarian alternatives, simply swap the ground beef for plant-based meat or lentils and adjust the cooking time accordingly. These adjustments allow everyone to enjoy this cozy comfort food!
What can I do if my casserole turns out too watery?
If you find your Cabbage Hamburger Casserole has excess liquid, try these steps: 1) Remove the foil during the last baking phase to allow steam to escape. 2) If it’s still watery after cooking, you can simmer it on the stovetop for a few minutes to reduce the liquid. Just be sure to stir frequently to avoid sticking!
Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
The more the merrier! Feel free to add additional veggies like broccoli, corn, or bell peppers to elevate both the flavor and nutritional content. Just be sure to chop them into small pieces to ensure they cook evenly alongside the cabbage and rice.
Ultimate Cabbage Hamburger Casserole for Cozy Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté diced onion, carrots, and minced garlic in the skillet for 3-4 minutes.
- Combine the meat mixture with jasmine rice, diced tomatoes, and oregano in a large bowl.
- Fold in the diced cabbage until well-combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a baking pan and pour beef broth over the top.
- Cover the pan with foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Stir the casserole gently and add any additional vegetables if desired.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 30-45 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
- Let rest for 15 minutes before serving and optionally top with cheese.
