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Amish Cabbage Roll Casserole: A Comforting, Hearty Classic
There’s something incredibly comforting about Amish-style casseroles, and this Amish Cabbage Roll Casserole delivers all the warmth and flavor of traditional cabbage rolls without the extra work. With layers of tender cabbage, perfectly seasoned ground beef, and rich tomato sauce, this dish captures everything we love about home-cooked meals — simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
This casserole combines the savory goodness of beef and the sweetness of cabbage in a single, hearty dish. The Amish are known for creating meals that are both nourishing and easy to prepare, and this recipe is no exception. Instead of taking time to roll individual cabbage leaves, everything bakes together in comforting layers, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The result is a rich, filling meal that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.
Ingredients
To make this traditional Amish favorite, you’ll need the following:
- - 1 pound ground beef (lean preferred)
- - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- - 3 cloves garlic, minced
- - 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- - 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- - 1/2 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- - 1 teaspoon salt
- - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- - 1 teaspoon paprika
- - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- - 2 cups beef broth
- - 1 tablespoon olive oil
- - 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Build the Casserole Layers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large casserole dish, begin by spreading half of the chopped cabbage across the bottom. Add half of the uncooked rice evenly over the cabbage layer. Pour half of the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes on top, followed by half of the cooked beef mixture. Repeat the layers — cabbage, rice, sauce, and beef — until all ingredients are used.
Step 3: Add Broth and Bake
Pour the beef broth evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to help the rice cook through and the flavors blend perfectly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 75 minutes. If you prefer a cheesy finish, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, and bake uncovered until melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Amish Cabbage Roll Casserole hot, straight from the oven. It pairs beautifully with a slice of warm buttered bread or soft dinner rolls. For a complete meal, add a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a simple green salad to balance the hearty richness of the dish.
Tips for Success
The key to a perfect Amish casserole lies in balancing moisture and texture. Make sure to chop the cabbage into medium pieces so it cooks evenly without becoming mushy. If you prefer a saucier version, add an extra half cup of tomato sauce or beef broth. You can also mix in cooked rice instead of raw if you want a faster cooking time.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This dish is ideal for meal prep or family gatherings. You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. After cooking, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats wonderfully in the oven or microwave. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, wrap it tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Amish Classic
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and comfort. Every bite delivers the hearty flavors of beef, tomato, and cabbage perfectly blended together — just like the classic cabbage rolls our grandmothers made, but with a modern, effortless twist. It’s warm, filling, and perfect for cold evenings, Sunday dinners, or whenever you crave something homestyle and delicious.
Nutritional Insights (Per Serving)
Approximate values per serving (based on 6 servings): Calories: 380 | Protein: 26g | Carbohydrates: 22g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 4g | Sodium: 620mg
Final Thoughts
This Amish Cabbage Roll Casserole is proof that traditional recipes never go out of style. It embodies the essence of simple Amish cooking — wholesome ingredients, practical preparation, and unbeatable flavor. Whether you’re feeding your family or bringing a dish to a potluck, this casserole promises to please every appetite with its comforting taste and homestyle goodness.