Baked Cabbage Rice Casserole with Tomatoes and Vegetables
A hearty one-dish meal combining tender cabbage, fluffy rice, and savory tomatoes baked together in aromatic vegetable broth. This comforting casserole features layers of flavor from sautéed onions and garlic, with warm spices like paprika adding depth. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, the dish becomes wonderfully tender as the rice absorbs the flavorful broth during baking. The optional cheese topping creates a golden, bubbly finish that makes this simple combination of humble ingredients feel special and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head cabbage, choppedbrussels sprouts4 cups choppedseasonal
more bitter
- 1 cup rice, uncookedquinoa1 cupgluten-freeprotein
nuttier texture
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup cheese, shredded(optional)
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F
- 2
Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium heat
- 3
Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft and fragrant
- 4
Add cabbage and cook until beginning to soften, about 5 minutes
- 5
Stir in rice, diced tomatoes with juice, vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and paprika
- 6
Transfer mixture to greased casserole dish and cover with foil
- 7
Bake for 45 minutes until rice is cooked and liquid absorbed
- 8
If using cheese, sprinkle on top and bake 5 minutes more until melted
- 9
Let casserole rest before serving
Tips
Use long-grain rice like jasmine or basmati for best texture and to prevent mushiness during the longer baking time.
Check liquid levels halfway through baking - add more broth if mixture looks dry to ensure rice cooks properly.
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow remaining liquid to absorb and make serving easier.
Good to Know
Cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in 350°F oven until warmed through.
Assemble casserole up to 1 day ahead, cover and refrigerate. Add 10 minutes to baking time if cooking from cold.
Serve hot as main dish with crusty bread or simple green salad. Great for potluck gatherings.
Common Mistakes
Use enough liquid to prevent rice from staying crunchy - add more broth if mixture looks dry during baking.
Avoid overcooking cabbage in skillet step to prevent mushy texture in final dish.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Gluten-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but increase liquid to 2.5 cups and baking time to 60-70 minutes since brown rice takes longer to cook and absorb liquid.
What if I don't have vegetable broth?
Use chicken broth for richer flavor, or dissolve 2 bouillon cubes in 2 cups hot water as substitute.
How long will leftovers keep in the refrigerator?
Covered leftovers stay fresh for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in microwave or whole dish in 350°F oven until heated through.