Description
A refined reimagining of a classic comfort dish with layers of tender cabbage, seasoned meat, and a bright tomato-dill sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 medium green cabbage (about 2–3 lb), core removed and leaves blanched
- 1 lb ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice (short-grain or jasmine), cooled
- 24 oz crushed tomatoes (one 28-oz can), strained if too watery
- 1/2 cup low-sodium beef or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 3/4 cup grated Gruyère or sharp white cheddar
- 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter at room temperature
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Lemon zest (optional), finely grated
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Core and quarter the cabbage, then blanch leaves in boiling salted water for 2–3 minutes until bright and pliable. Drain and pat dry.
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent and slightly caramelized (about 6 minutes), then add garlic and chopped cabbage heart; cook until softened.
- Push vegetables to the side, increase heat, and add the ground meat. Cook until browned, breaking into small pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in cooked rice and remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Combine crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, and dill in a saucepan. Simmer gently for 8–10 minutes until sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and a pinch of sugar if needed.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Layer half the cabbage leaves, followed by half the meat-rice mixture, then a third of the sauce. Repeat layers, finishing with cabbage leaves and remaining sauce. Sprinkle cheese and dot with butter or oil.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10–12 minutes until cheese is golden and sauce bubbles. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
For best results, let the casserole rest before slicing to maintain clean portions. For variations, consider flaked salmon or vegetarian options.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg