This one’s been dubbed 'Amish Sunday Favorite' because the compliments keep coming all week long.

This Amish Cabbage Roll Casserole is a comforting dish that brings the heart of the Midwest to your table. It's a simpler version of the traditional cabbage rolls, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The casserole combines tender cabbage, savory beef, and a rich tomato sauce, all baked together to create a meal that's both hearty and satisfying. This dish is a family favorite, especially during the colder months, and it's a great way to introduce kids to the flavors of cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling each one individually.

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of buttery mashed potatoes or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can add a nice contrast to the richness of the casserole. For a touch of sweetness, consider serving it with a side of applesauce or a simple fruit salad.

Servings: 6

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small head of cabbage, chopped
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup uncooked white rice
2 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onion is translucent.

Stir in the chopped cabbage, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, uncooked rice, beef broth, salt, pepper, and paprika.

Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.

Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. If you have picky eaters, try adding a bit of grated carrot or zucchini to sneak in some extra veggies. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese before baking.