When it comes to serving a vegetarian stuffed cabbage casserole, you want to consider side dishes that will enhance the experience. Here are some delicious pairings:

• Crusty Garlic Bread: Nothing beats the comfort of a warm, crunchy garlic bread alongside your casserole. Its buttery goodness will complement the savory flavors of the dish beautifully.
  
• Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp salad can balance the richness of the casserole. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to keep things refreshing.
  
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables brings out their natural sweetness. Try carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers, seasoned with olive oil and herbs.
  
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can provide a satisfying contrast. A little drizzle of gravy or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can make this side even better.
  

You’ll Also Like These Recipes

• Soba Noodle Stir Fry and Mushroom Delight Recipe
• Veggie-Packed Spanish Rice Recipe
• Vegan Sheet Pan Potatoes and Tofu

Ah, stuffed cabbage! It brings back memories of family gatherings, warm kitchens, and the comforting scent of home-cooked meals. As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I know that vegetarian dishes often get a bad rap for being bland. But, let me tell you, this vegetarian stuffed cabbage casserole is anything but. It’s hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to whip up.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know to create this delightful casserole. We’ll explore what makes this recipe stand out, break down the ingredient list, and run through the cooking steps. Trust me, by the end, you’ll want to gather your loved ones around the table for a meal that not only nourishes the body but also warms the heart.

What is Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Casserole?

This dish is a modern twist on traditional stuffed cabbage rolls. If you’ve ever had those rolls, you know they can be a bit time-consuming to prepare. Enter the casserole version! It’s filled with a delightful mixture of rice, veggies, and plant-based protein, all wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and baked until everything melds together into a scrumptious dish.

Why This Recipe Works?

1. Flavor Fusion: Each element complements one another perfectly. The combination of garlic, spices, and diced tomatoes elevates the dish. You’re going to love the depth of flavor from the smoked paprika and Italian herbs.

2. Nutrient-Dense: This casserole is a powerhouse of nutrients! The cabbage provides vitamins K and C, while the rice and plant-based protein enrich the dish with fiber and energy-boosting carbohydrates.

3. Versatility: One of the best aspects is its flexibility. You can swap out ingredients based on what’s in your pantry or tailor it to your family’s taste. Prefer quinoa over rice? Go for it! Not a fan of mushrooms? Leave them out.

4. Make-Ahead Friendly: This casserole is ideal for meal prepping. You can assemble it the night before, stick it in the fridge, and pop it in the oven the next day. Perfect for busy weekdays or hosting.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Casserole

Tomato and Rice Filling:

• 2 cups cooked rice blend (mix of white and brown rice)
  
• 14 oz diced tomatoes with juices
  
• ¾ cup mushroom-infused broth
  
• 2 oz plant-based protein crumbles
  
• 400 ml canned tomato purée
  

Sautéed Cabbage Base:

• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  
• 12 cups finely shredded green cabbage
  
• ¼ cup grated carrot
  
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
  
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  
• 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
  
• 2 stalks celery, finely minced
  
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
  
• 1 teaspoon umami seasoning or Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  
• Mushroom broth or warm water, as needed for moisture
  

Savory Cheese Topping:

• 2 cups Italian-style shredded cheese mix
  
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian herb mix
  
• ¼ cup 10% cream or whole milk
  
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
  
• 1 large egg
  

How To Make This Delicious Dish?

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from a head of cabbage. Slowly add the whole head of cabbage to the boiling water. Allow it to cook for about 5-7 minutes until the outer leaves soften. Let it cool slightly, then peel off the leaves.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté the chopped onion until it turns translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Next, add the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, celery, and spices. Stir everything together. If it looks too dry, add a splash of mushroom broth or water. Cook until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 3: Combine Rice and Cabbage Mixture

In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice blend, diced tomatoes, plant-based crumbles, and the sautéed cabbage mixture. Stir until everything is evenly combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread a layer of tomato purée on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Now, carefully start filling the cabbage leaves with the rice mixture. Place each stuffed leaf seam-side down in the baking dish. If you run out of leaves, you can simply layer the filling on top.

Step 5: Add the Cheese Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cheese, cream, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, and egg. Once mixed, spread this cheese topping over the stuffed cabbage. It’s going to add a creamy, flavorful crust that you’ll love.

Step 6: Bake It

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Let It Rest

Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for at least 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to portion out.

Tips for Success

• Choose Fresh Cabbage: Look for green cabbage that feels heavy for its size. The leaves should be tightly packed and crisp.
  
• Customize the Filling: Don’t hesitate to add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for more texture and flavor.
  
• Keep an Eye on Cooking: If you notice the cheese topping browning too quickly, cover the dish with foil again to prevent burning.
  
• Check the Seasoning: Taste your filling before assembling. Adjust the salt and spices as you like!
  
• Reheating: When reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth or water to keep the cabbage from drying out.
  

Nutrition Information

For a serving size of approximately 1/6 of the casserole (based on 6 total servings), here’s the rough nutritional breakdown:

• Calories: 350
  
• Protein: 12g
  
• Carbohydrates: 35g
  
• Dietary Fiber: 6g
  
• Fat: 16g
  
• Saturated Fat: 7g
  
• Sodium: 400mg
  

How to Store The Leftovers?

This dish keeps well in the fridge and can be stored for up to 4 days in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions. When reheating, just add a bit of moisture to ensure it doesn’t dry out.

Recommended Side Dishes for Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Casserole

• Garlic Bread: As mentioned, this complements the casserole beautifully with its savory flavor.
  
• Steamed Broccoli: A quick way to get greens on the table. Toss with a bit of lemon juice or olive oil for added taste.
  
• Caesar salad (without meat): The crispness of romaine, tossed with a creamy dressing, pairs well with the hearty casserole.
  
• Corn on the Cob: Perfect for summer! Sweet corn is a seasonal delight that balances the savory dish.
  

Substitute Options for the Ingredients

If you find you’re missing some ingredients, don’t fret. Here are a few alternatives:

• Rice: Swap with quinoa or farro for a different texture and flavor profile.
  
• Plant-Based Crumbles: Lentils, chickpeas, or even finely chopped mushrooms can stand in beautifully.
  
• Diced Tomatoes: Use fresh tomatoes if you have them, or opt for canned crushed tomatoes.
  
• Cream: Coconut milk or cashew cream offer plant-based alternatives for those avoiding dairy.
  

Pamela Dunlap

Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Casserole

When it comes to serving a vegetarian stuffed cabbage casserole, you want to consider side dishes that will enhance the experience.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Servings: 8

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Eastern

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

Tomato and Rice Filling:

• 2 cups cooked rice blend mix of white and brown rice
• 14 oz diced tomatoes with juices
• ¾ cup mushroom-infused broth
• 2 oz plant-based protein crumbles
• 400 ml canned tomato purée

Sautéed Cabbage Base:

• 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 12 cups finely shredded green cabbage
• ¼ cup grated carrot
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 stalks celery finely minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon umami seasoning or Worcestershire sauce optional
• Mushroom broth or warm water as needed for moisture

Savory Cheese Topping:

• 2 cups Italian-style shredded cheese mix
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian herb mix
• ¼ cup 10% cream or whole milk
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 large egg

Equipment

• Skillet, Oven

Method

 

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from a head of cabbage. Slowly add the whole head of cabbage to the boiling water. Allow it to cook for about 5-7 minutes until the outer leaves soften. Let it cool slightly, then peel off the leaves.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté the chopped onion until it turns translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Next, add the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, celery, and spices. Stir everything together. If it looks too dry, add a splash of mushroom broth or water. Cook until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 3: Combine Rice and Cabbage Mixture

1. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice blend, diced tomatoes, plant-based crumbles, and the sautéed cabbage mixture. Stir until everything is evenly combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread a layer of tomato purée on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Now, carefully start filling the cabbage leaves with the rice mixture. Place each stuffed leaf seam-side down in the baking dish. If you run out of leaves, you can simply layer the filling on top.

Step 5: Add the Cheese Topping

1. In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cheese, cream, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, and egg. Once mixed, spread this cheese topping over the stuffed cabbage. It’s going to add a creamy, flavorful crust that you’ll love.

Step 6: Bake It

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Let It Rest

1. Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for at least 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to portion out.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 12gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 400mgFiber: 6g

Notes

• Choose Fresh Cabbage: Look for green cabbage that feels heavy for its size. The leaves should be tightly packed and crisp.
• Customize the Filling: Don’t hesitate to add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for more texture and flavor.
• Keep an Eye on Cooking: If you notice the cheese topping browning too quickly, cover the dish with foil again to prevent burning.
• Check the Seasoning: Taste your filling before assembling. Adjust the salt and spices as you like!
  
• Reheating: When reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth or water to keep the cabbage from drying out.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Now, you’re more than equipped to whip up an outstanding vegetarian stuffed cabbage casserole. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s bound to become a favorite. The beauty of this meal is its adaptability; let your creativity flow, and don’t hesitate to play with various fillings and spices. 

So whether you’re gathering friends for a potluck or cooking for the family, this casserole will satisfy everyone at the table. Give it a go, and enjoy the warm, comforting embrace of a homemade meal!

You’ll Also Like These Latest Post

• Lemony Wheat Berries and Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe
• Celeriac Soup Recipe
• Vegan Avocado Pasta Recipe