Skip to Content

Deconstructed Cabbage Roll Casserole

This Deconstructed Cabbage Roll Casserole is perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings. A comforting meal that’s easy to make too!

 

Main image for Deconstructed Cabbage Roll Casserole

 

This delicious recipe has all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the extra time and effort!

Tender cabbage, seasoned ground meat, and a tangy tomato sauce are baked together under a golden crust.

And it is DELICIOUS!

Unstuffed cabbage roll casserole is a great way to enjoy comfort food with the whole family!

It’s a simple recipe that uses everyday ingredients you probably already have. Yay!

No need to roll cabbage leaves. So it’s way quicker than classic cabbage rolls.

And you can use lean ground beef, ground turkey, or ground pork for extra flavor. Whatever you’ve got!

It’s perfect for busy weeknights! This hearty casserole is ready in no time!

Unrolled cabbage roll casserole is a family favorite! It’s great for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home!

 

All ingredients laid out on counter.

 

What Is Deconstructed Cabbage Roll Casserole?

Cabbage roll casserole is also known as unstuffed cabbage roll casserole or lazy cabbage roll casserole.

It’s a dish that combines all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the need to roll cabbage leaves.

Think hearty casserole made with seasoned ground meat, chopped cabbage, and a rich tomato sauce, all baked in a casserole dish.

I really prefer this way on busy nights!

And actually sometimes I can’t get the kids to eat wrapped cabbage leaves.

But they’ll eat them all chopped up in this! So it’s great for sneaking those into their diets.

 

ground beef onion and cabbage in a skillet, uncooked.

 

What Ingredients Are in Deconstructed Cabbage Roll Casserole?

These unstuffed cabbage rolls are one of the best things you’ll try this week!

And you’ve probably got all this stuff already!

If not, here’s what you’ll need to pick up from the grocery store:

  • Ground beef: Lean ground beef works best. But you can use ground turkey or ground pork.
  • Onion: Diced yellow onion is my preference.
  • Shredded cabbage: Half a head of green cabbage. Chopped into small pieces.
  • Salt and black pepper: Where would we be without these staples?
  • Cream of mushroom soup: Could use another cream soup if you have one.
  • Shredded cheese: Mozzarella cheese or your personal preference.
  • Crescent rolls: Forms the crust of the casserole.

Pro Tips: 

  • For extra flavor, add a little bit of garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or Italian seasoning.
  • You can also substitute cauliflower rice or brown rice if you want.

 

Cream of mushroom soup added to beef and cabbage mixture.

 

How to Make Deconstructed Cabbage Roll Casserole

This easy cabbage roll casserole is gonna hit the spot! 

Here’s how to make this great recipe!

  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground meat with diced onion and shredded cabbage.
  2. Add salt, black pepper, and soup.
  3. Open the crescent rolls and cut them to make two equal squares. Layer all ingredients.
  4.  Bake uncovered until the crust is golden brown.

Pro Tips:

  • For a crispier crust, brush the top with a little olive oil before baking.
  • If the top browns too quickly, cover with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of cooking time.
  • Spray a square 8-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.

 

Beef mixture being placed in casserole dish on top of crescent roll dough.

 

How to Store Cabbage Roll Casserole

To store this homemade cabbage rolls casserole, let it cool to room temperature.

That’s always step number one! It stores better if it’s room temperature before it goes in the fridge.

Then place leftovers in an airtight container.

Refrigerate for up to three days.

It’s great for meal prep!

 

top layer of crescent rolls in pan over cheese.

 

Can You Freeze Deconstructed Cabbage Roll Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze deconstructed cabbage roll casserole.

This is EXCELLENT for saving for a rainy day! Or for your neighbor going to have a baby.

So many options!

Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container.

I recommend also wrapping it twice with aluminum foil. Try and prevent freezer burn. 

The container is better if you’re just freezing part of the casserole, not the whole thing.

That’s a good idea for freezing individual portions of the casserole.

I like pulling those out for work or school or things like that.

How Long Is Deconstructed Cabbage Roll Casserole Good For?

When refrigerated, deconstructed cabbage roll casserole is good for up to three days.

Three days of delicious meals that is!

If frozen, it can last up to two months.

Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Careful not to recook it though in the oven. You don’t want to burn it.

Just warm it up until it’s a good eating temperature.

 

Baked Cabbage Roll Casserole in pan.

 

What to Serve with Deconstructed Cabbage Roll Casserole

Wondering what to serve with deconstructed cabbage roll casserole? Well you’ve got options!

It’s delicious with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.

You can also serve it with sour cream or a dollop of tangy tomato sauce on the side.

Here are some other great ideas if you need a few:

 

A slice of casserole being removed from pan.

 

Is Deconstructed Cabbage Roll Casserole Healthy?

Deconstructed cabbage roll casserole can totally be a healthy option!

Lean ground meat, cabbage, and simple ingredients. All so good for you!

Actually this bad boy is really stuffed with all sorts of good things your body needs.

You could also use ground turkey or ground chicken if you prefer those.

Or substitute white rice with brown rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Is Deconstructed Cabbage Roll Casserole Gluten-Free?

Deconstructed cabbage roll casserole can be made gluten free for sure.

Just leave out the crescent rolls. Boom. Gluten free.

Or you can use gluten-free alternatives for those.

I’m not super familiar with gluten free alternatives but I’m sure there are options.

Also be sure the cream of mushroom soup and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Sometimes canned soups can hide gluten in them.

 

casserole on plate with a fork holding a piece up.

 

Next time you’re craving comfort food, give this easy recipe for Deconstructed Cabbage Roll Casserole a try!

It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the extra time and effort! Score!

Your whole family will love it!

Yield: 6 Servings

Deconstructed Cabbage Roll Casserole

A slice of casserole being removed from pan.

Enjoy a hearty deconstructed cabbage roll casserole made with simple ingredients. An easy and delicious recipe perfect for family dinners.

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350*F
  2. Spray a square 8” casserole dish with cooking spray and set aside.
  3. Brown ground beef, onion and cabbage.  Drain off any excess fat.
  4. Add salt and pepper, mix well.
  5. Add cream of mushroom soup and mix well.
  6. Open crescent rolls up.
  7. Cut crescent rolls in half to make two equal squares.
  8. Place one square on the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
  9. Add filling on top of crescent dough.
  10. Top with cheese
  11. Add the second crescent roll square on top.
  12. Bake uncovered for 25 - 30 minutes or until the crust is golden.
  13. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

6

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 357Total Fat: 21gSaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 84mgSodium: 621mgCarbohydrates: 15gFiber: 3gSugar: 7gProtein: 27g

 

Sharing is caring!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Skip to Recipe