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### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Cabbage**: Start by chopping the cabbage into small pieces. You want the cabbage to be in bite-sized chunks so that it can cook evenly in the casserole. If you prefer softer cabbage, you can blanch it in boiling water for a few minutes, but it’s not necessary if you want a firmer texture.
2. **Cook the Ground Meat**: In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned. Break the meat into small pieces with a spoon as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
3. **Add the Tomatoes and Rice**: Once the meat and onions are cooked, stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, and cooked rice. Season with dried thyme, basil, sugar (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. **Layer the Casserole**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large greased baking dish, begin by layering half of the chopped cabbage. Top with half of the meat and tomato mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage and meat mixture.
5. **Bake the Casserole**: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the casserole is bubbling.
6. **Add Cheese (Optional)**: If you’re using cheese, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top of the casserole in the last 10 minutes of baking. This will melt into a golden, gooey layer that adds a creamy texture to the dish.
7. **Serve and Enjoy**: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or crusty bread.
### Tips and Variations
– **Rice**: If you prefer a low-carb version, you can skip the rice or substitute it with cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
– **Meat**: Feel free to use ground pork, chicken, or even a mixture of meats for different flavor profiles.
– **Vegetarian Option**: You can make a vegetarian version by using lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh in place of the ground meat.
– **Spicy Kick**: Add a bit of red pepper flakes or diced green chilies to give the casserole a spicy twist.
– **Freezer-Friendly**: This casserole freezes well, so it’s a great dish to make in advance. Just store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 30-40 minutes, until heated through.
### Why You’ll Love Cabbage Roll Casserole
– **Easy to Make**: Unlike traditional cabbage rolls that require you to individually stuff cabbage leaves, this casserole simplifies the process while still delivering all the delicious flavors.
– **Comfort Food**: This dish is the ultimate comfort food, full of hearty ingredients that will fill you up and warm you from the inside out.
– **Customizable**: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, from the choice of meat to the addition of extra seasonings or vegetables.
Cabbage roll casserole is a great meal for those who love the flavors of stuffed cabbage but want a more straightforward approach. It’s an easy-to-make, family-friendly dish that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy this savory dish for dinner, and have leftovers for a satisfying lunch the next day!
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