One-Skillet Stuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe Delight

Name: One-Skillet Stuffed Cabbage Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped; 1 lb ground beef or turkey; 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups tomato sauce; 1 cup water or broth; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: Fresh herbs (parsley or basil) for garnish

Posted on February 13, 2026

Dinner

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When you’re craving comfort food that is both hearty and healthy, look no further than One-Skillet Stuffed Cabbage Casserole. This dish combines the classic flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls with the convenience of a one-skillet meal, making it easy to prepare and clean up after. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Imagine tender cabbage leaves enveloping a flavorful filling of ground meat, rice, and spices, all simmered together in a savory tomato sauce. Not only is this dish delicious, but it also packs a nutritious punch with plenty of veggies and wholesome ingredients. With just one skillet and minimal prep time, you can indulge in this satisfying meal without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One-Skillet Stuffed Cabbage Casserole is not only a flavor bomb but also incredibly convenient for those who lead busy lives. First off, the simplicity of using just one skillet means fewer dishes to wash afterward, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time cleaning up. You can whip this dish up in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the filling to suit your tastes or dietary preferences by swapping out proteins or adding different vegetables. Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer plant-based options, this casserole adapts beautifully while retaining its comforting essence. Additionally, leftovers reheat well, ensuring that you can savor this delightful dish for days to come.

Key Ingredients

One-Skillet Stuffed Cabbage Casserole ingredients

This One-Skillet Stuffed Cabbage Casserole requires simple ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cabbage: The star ingredient, providing a hearty base and wrapping for the filling.
Ground Meat: Beef or turkey works well; choose your favorite protein for added flavor.
Rice: Uncooked white or brown rice absorbs the flavors while adding texture and heartiness.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent for maximum flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the overall taste with its aromatic qualities.
Tomato Sauce: The rich sauce binds everything together while delivering essential moisture.
Spices: A mix of Italian seasoning and paprika adds warmth and complexity to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by preparing your ingredients: chop the cabbage into strips, dice the onion and garlic, and measure out your rice.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the diced onion until it becomes translucent. Then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Add the ground meat to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks until browned throughout; drain any excess fat if necessary.
Add uncooked rice along with tomato sauce and 1 cup of water (or broth) to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Toss in chopped cabbage on top of the mixture. Cover with a lid and let everything simmer for about 25-30 minutes until the cabbage is tender and rice is fully cooked.
If desired, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving for an extra touch of flavor!

Expert Tips

Don’t rush cooking your onion and garlic: Sautéing them longer brings out their natural sweetness. Adjust liquid levels based on rice type: Brown rice may require more liquid than white rice; check package instructions.Add cheese at the end: For an extra layer of richness, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking.You can use leftover cooked meat: If you have cooked chicken or pork handy, feel free to substitute it into this recipe for even quicker preparation.This casserole freezes well: Make a double batch so you always have a homemade meal ready when needed!

Presentation Ideas

The presentation of your One-Skillet Stuffed Cabbage Casserole can enhance its appeal significantly. Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic look that invites sharing among family or friends. Garnish each portion with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or dill to add color contrast against the rich tomato sauce. Pair it with crusty bread on the side for dipping into any remaining sauce, creating an inviting dining experience that feels both cozy and elegant.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Certainly! You can prepare all ingredients ahead of time and assemble them in the skillet without cooking. When you’re ready to eat, simply follow cooking instructions as directed. This method saves time during busy evenings while still serving up a homemade dish!

What can I substitute for ground meat?

If you’d like to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly or cater to specific dietary preferences, consider substituting ground meat with lentils or quinoa mixed with sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and texture in your stuffing!

Can I use frozen cabbage?

You may use frozen cabbage; however, it’s best suited when fully thawed before cooking since frozen veggies often release excess moisture into dishes that could alter texture if not adjusted accordingly during cooking times!

How do I store leftovers?

You can store any leftover One-Skillet Stuffed Cabbage Casserole in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat effectively without drying out food too much while maintaining quality flavors intact—consider using either microwave-safe bowls covered loosely by lids or reheating on stovetops over low heat settings until warmed through appropriately!