Name: Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium head cabbage (about 2 pounds); 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional); 1/2 cup tomato sauce

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside, look no further than this Cabbage Beef Bake. This dish brings together tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful mixture of seasoned ground beef, rice, and tomatoes, then baked to perfection. It’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will have you reaching for seconds—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend feast, the Cabbage Beef Bake is a true crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Cabbage Beef Bake lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each item has a role, whether it’s enhancing flavor, adding texture, or bringing color to the dish.

1 medium head cabbage (About 2 pounds): The star wrapper that holds the savory filling with a crisp yet tender bite.
1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty, rich protein and juicy flavor to the filling.
1 cup cooked rice: Adds substance and soaks up all those delicious juices for a satisfying texture.
1 cup diced tomatoes (Canned or fresh): Brings a touch of brightness and subtle acidity to balance the richness.
1 medium onion (Chopped): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
2 cloves garlic (Minced): Infuses an aromatic warmth that complements every bite.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and amplifying all the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle kick and enhances the savory profile.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy, herby note that rounds out the seasoning.
1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a subtle smokiness and a hint of color.
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (Optional): A melty, gooey finish that makes the dish even more irresistible.
1/2 cup tomato sauce: Keeps the bake moist and adds a rich, tangy topping.

How to Make Cabbage Beef Bake

Step 1: Prepare the cabbage leaves

Start by removing the core from the cabbage and gently peeling off 12 large leaves. It’s important to be careful not to tear them because they’ll be the “wrappers” for your filling. Blanch these leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they soften just enough to roll easily. Drain and set aside—this prep makes rolling a breeze and keeps the leaves tender after baking.

Step 2: Cook the beef filling

Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the beef is fully browned. Browning the meat well is key to developing rich flavor. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness and prepare for the next step.

Step 3: Combine filling ingredients

Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, salt, black pepper, oregano, and paprika right into the skillet. Mix everything thoroughly so each bite is packed with the perfect balance of savory, herby, and slightly smoky notes. This mixture forms the delicious heart of your Cabbage Beef Bake.

Step 4: Roll the cabbage wraps

Lay the blanched cabbage leaves flat on your counter. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture into each leaf. Then, carefully roll up the leaf, tucking in the sides as you go to seal all the flavor inside. Arrange the rolls seam-side down in your greased baking dish, which helps keep them intact while baking.

Step 5: Add sauce and cheese

Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the rolls to keep the bake moist and infuse extra tanginess. If you’re adding mozzarella, sprinkle it over the top for that irresistible golden, bubbly crust that makes this dish even more comforting and delightful.

Step 6: Bake to perfection

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes so the cheese melts and browns beautifully. Let the dish cool slightly before serving to help all those savory juices settle.

How to Serve Cabbage Beef Bake

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like chopped parsley, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, or a drizzle of sour cream can elevate your Cabbage Beef Bake. These little touches add brightness and creaminess that complement the hearty flavors without overpowering them.

Side Dishes

Since this bake is already a substantial dish, light sides such as a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or even a simple cucumber and tomato salad make perfect companions. They add freshness and balance to the richness of the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual cabbage beef rolls on a bed of mashed potatoes or creamy polenta. You can also present the rolls in a rustic casserole dish for sharing or plate them individually with a sprig of fresh herbs for a more elegant look. Either way, the presentation invites smiles at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (and you probably will!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after a day, making the Cabbage Beef Bake taste just as good, if not better, the next time around.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Place the cabbage rolls in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and taste.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the leftovers in a 350°F oven covered with foil until heated through, usually about 20-25 minutes. This method keeps the cabbage tender and prevents the cheese from drying out. Microwave works too for a quick fix but can toughen the cabbage slightly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice?

Absolutely! While white rice is traditional here, brown rice or even quinoa can be great alternatives. Just make sure they’re cooked beforehand so the filling has the right texture and moisture.

Is it necessary to blanch the cabbage leaves?

Blanching softens the cabbage, making it pliable and easier to roll. Skipping this step might lead to brittle leaves that tear easily during assembly or baking.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely. Swap ground beef with plant-based crumbles, cooked lentils, or a mix of finely chopped mushrooms and veggies for a tasty vegetarian version of Cabbage Beef Bake.

What sauce can I use besides tomato sauce?

You could try a creamy béchamel or even a light broth-based sauce, but tomato sauce’s acidity and sweetness work particularly well to balance the richness of the beef and cabbage.

Is mozzarella cheese mandatory?

Not at all. The cheese adds a nice melty topping, but the dish is already flavorful without it. Feel free to skip it for a lighter bake or use another cheese like cheddar or provolone if you prefer.

Final Thoughts

There’s something deeply satisfying about a Cabbage Beef Bake—a dish that’s humble in ingredients yet full of comfort and heart. It’s perfect for anyone who loves a home-cooked meal filled with flavors that remind you of family dinners, slow Sundays, and cozy gatherings. I hope you give this recipe a try and discover your own little piece of delicious tradition to treasure and share.

Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 9 reviews

Author: Ethan
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and comforting Cabbage Beef Bake featuring tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomatoes, baked in a rich tomato sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. This dish offers a delicious combination of flavors and textures perfect for a family dinner.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Cabbage Leaves: Remove the core from the cabbage and carefully peel off 12 large leaves, trying not to tear them. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until softened, then drain them and set aside to cool.
Cook the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the beef is fully browned. Drain off any excess fat to keep the filling lean.
Mix Filling Ingredients: Add cooked rice, diced tomatoes, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and paprika to the browned beef mixture. Stir well to combine all the flavors evenly.
Assemble the Rolls: Lay the blanched cabbage leaves out flat. Place about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture onto each leaf, then roll tightly while tucking in the sides to encase the filling. Arrange the rolls seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls. If you like, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top for a cheesy finish.
Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep moisture in and bake for 30 minutes in the preheated oven.
Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown (if using cheese).
Cool and Serve: Remove the cabbage beef bake from the oven and let it cool a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to set and to avoid burns.

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Using fresh tomatoes will add a brighter flavor, but canned work perfectly fine.
To make the recipe gluten-free, ensure the tomato sauce and spices do not contain gluten additives.
For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of chili flakes.
The cheese topping is optional; omit it to reduce calories or for a dairy-free version.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American