Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head of green cabbage
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella), optional
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water. Blanch the cabbage for about 2-3 minutes, or until the leaves are tender. Remove the cabbage and let it cool. Once cooled, carefully peel off the leaves and set them aside.
- Cook the Filling: In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture, cooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Layer the Casserole: In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat mixture on the bottom. Place a layer of cabbage leaves over the meat mixture. Repeat the layering process, alternating layers of meat mixture and cabbage leaves, until all ingredients are used. Finish with a layer of the meat mixture on top.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top layer of the casserole.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!