Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that's both comforting and delicious? Introducing the Rice Cabbage and Spaghetti Sauce Casserole—a delightful American recipe that combines the heartiness of rice and cabbage with the rich flavors of spaghetti sauce, topped with gooey melted cheese. This one-pan wonder not only serves six but also brings the family together around the dinner table, making it the perfect solution for busy evenings. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a meal that's sure to impress. Read on to discover how to whip up this scrumptious casserole that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 jar (24 oz) spaghetti sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the cabbage by washing it thoroughly and chopping it into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1-inch squares. Aim for uniform size to ensure even cooking.
- In a large skillet, sauté the chopped cabbage over medium heat with a tablespoon of olive oil. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the cabbage starts to soften but remains slightly crisp. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed cabbage, and entire jar of spaghetti sauce. Mix well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Transfer the rice and cabbage mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole, covering the entire surface. Dust with Italian seasoning for additional flavor.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning and help steam the ingredients.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, removing the foil during the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and become slightly golden.
- Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes serving easier.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired. Pair with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can chop the cabbage and prepare the rice in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the casserole.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to the casserole, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese for varied taste. Mozzarella, cheddar, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan can add a unique twist to your casserole.
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the spaghetti sauce for an extra kick.
- Resting Time: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve your casserole with a fresh side salad or some crusty garlic bread to round out the meal and satisfy everyone at the table.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
