Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray and set aside.
- In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef, and cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the uncooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), Worcestershire sauce, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet, stirring until it is evenly distributed with the beef and rice mixture.
- Pour the beef broth over the cabbage and beef mixture in the skillet, ensuring that the cabbage is submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the cabbage is tender.
- Once the rice and cabbage are cooked, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the cabbage roll mixture in the baking dish.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the foil from the baking dish and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown on top.
- Once the cabbage roll casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish the casserole with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.
Conclusion: This easy cabbage roll casserole captures all the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in a simpler and more convenient format. With tender cabbage, flavorful beef, and rice, all baked together in a savory tomato sauce and topped with melted cheese, this casserole is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy the deliciousness and simplicity of this hearty dish!