Looking for a hearty and comforting meal that’s both nutritious and easy to make? This best turkey cabbage casserole recipe with rice combines lean ground turkey, tender cabbage, and fluffy rice in a flavorful, one-pan dish. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a hungry family.
With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this casserole delivers a balance of protein, vegetables, and carbs in every bite. Whether you’re new to casseroles or a seasoned home cook, this recipe will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table.
Let’s dive into how to make the best turkey cabbage casserole recipe with rice step by step!
Ingredients for the Best Turkey Cabbage Casserole Recipe with Rice
Table of contents
- Ingredients for the Best Turkey Cabbage Casserole Recipe with Rice
- Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Best Turkey Cabbage Casserole Recipe with Rice
- Tips for the Best Turkey Cabbage Casserole Recipe with Rice
- Variations of the Recipe
- Serving Suggestions
- Nutritional Information
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- 1. Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?
- 2. How do I store leftovers?
- 3. Can I freeze this casserole?
- 4. Can I substitute ground turkey with another meat?
- 5. What’s the best cheese to use?
- 6. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
- 7. Can I use leftover turkey instead of ground turkey?
- 8. How can I make this casserole healthier?
- 9. How do I reheat the casserole?
- 10. What if I don’t have diced tomatoes?
- 11. Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
- 12. How can I add more protein?
- Conclusion
Gather these simple yet wholesome ingredients to create this satisfying casserole.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground turkey | 1 pound |
| Cabbage (chopped) | 1 medium head (6–8 cups) |
| Cooked rice | 2 cups (white or brown) |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 large |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Diced tomatoes (canned) | 1 can (14–16 oz) |
| Tomato sauce | 1 cup |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cheddar cheese (shredded) | 1 cup (for topping) |
| Parsley (chopped) | For garnish |
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Best Turkey Cabbage Casserole Recipe with Rice
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious, layered casserole that’s perfect for any occasion.
Step 1 – Preparing the Ingredients
- Cook the rice: Prepare 2 cups of rice according to package instructions. Use white or brown rice, depending on your preference. Set it aside.
- Chop the cabbage: Remove the tough core from the cabbage and chop it into medium-sized pieces.
- Prepare the turkey: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 2 – Cooking the Ground Turkey
- Brown the turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use a spatula to break the meat into small pieces and cook for 5–7 minutes until it’s no longer pink.
- Add the aromatics: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for an additional 2–3 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.
- Season the mixture: Add paprika, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to evenly coat the turkey with the spices.
Step 3 – Cooking the Cabbage
- Add the cabbage: Stir the chopped cabbage into the skillet with the ground turkey. It will look like a lot, but the cabbage will shrink as it cooks.
- Add liquids: Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and tomato sauce. Stir everything well.
- Simmer: Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer over medium-low heat for 10–15 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
Step 4 – Assembling the Casserole
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer the casserole: In a large baking dish, start by spreading a layer of the turkey and cabbage mixture. Add a layer of cooked rice on top. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 5 – Baking the Casserole
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle it with fresh parsley, and allow it to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Turkey Cabbage Casserole Recipe with Rice
If you want your casserole to turn out perfect every time, here are a few more expert tips:
- Prevent a watery casserole:
- Cabbage releases a lot of water when it cooks. To prevent the casserole from becoming watery, cook the cabbage down until most of the moisture evaporates before assembling the dish.
- Make it ahead:
- This casserole is a fantastic make-ahead dish! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, bake it as directed, adding an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
- Use a deep baking dish:
- Since this recipe involves layering cabbage, rice, and turkey, opt for a deep baking dish (at least 9×13 inches) to ensure all ingredients fit comfortably.
- Add herbs for freshness:
- Stir fresh parsley, basil, or thyme into the cooked turkey and cabbage mixture to add a burst of flavor before layering the casserole.
- Don’t overcook the rice:
- Since the rice will absorb moisture in the oven, cook it to a slightly firmer texture (al dente) before adding it to the casserole.
Variations of the Recipe
Switch up the flavors of this dish to suit your preferences! Here are additional variations of the best turkey cabbage casserole recipe with rice:
Cheesy Turkey Cabbage Casserole
- Double the cheese by adding a layer of shredded cheese between the rice and turkey cabbage mixture. Top with Parmesan or mozzarella for an ultra-cheesy finish.
Mexican-Style Turkey Cabbage Casserole
- Give the casserole a bold twist with Mexican flavors:
- Add 1 teaspoon of cumin and chili powder to the turkey mixture.
- Swap diced tomatoes for salsa.
- Use a blend of cheddar and pepper jack cheese on top.
Mediterranean Turkey Cabbage Casserole
- Add Mediterranean-inspired ingredients:
- Stir in chopped spinach, black olives, and feta cheese with the turkey mixture.
- Use brown rice or quinoa for added texture.
Vegan Turkey Cabbage Casserole
- Replace the ground turkey with a plant-based alternative like lentils or crumbled tofu.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and dairy-free cheese for the topping.
Turkey and Wild Rice Casserole
For a more rustic texture, replace white or brown rice with wild rice. Wild rice adds a nutty flavor and holds up well during baking.
Low-Carb Turkey Cabbage Casserole
- Replace the rice with cauliflower rice to reduce carbs while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
Spicy Turkey Cabbage Casserole
- Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder or extra red pepper flakes to give the casserole a spicy kick.
Creamy Turkey Cabbage Casserole
- Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the turkey mixture for a creamier, richer texture.
Serving Suggestions
This turkey cabbage casserole is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your dining experience. Here are additional serving suggestions:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Buttery Cornbread | A soft, slightly sweet bread that pairs well with savory casseroles. |
| Coleslaw | A light and crunchy slaw adds freshness to balance the casserole’s richness. |
| Roasted Asparagus | A simple roasted vegetable side that adds a healthy, flavorful touch. |
| Sautéed Spinach | Quick and easy greens that complement the casserole’s hearty flavors. |
| Creamy Mashed Potatoes | Perfect for those who love extra comfort food with their casserole. |
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | Perfect for soaking up the sauce. |
| Steamed Green Beans | Adds a light, healthy contrast. |
| Garden Salad | Balances the richness of the casserole. |
| Roasted Carrots | Sweet and savory, a great complement. |
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of this casserole:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320–350 kcal |
| Protein | 25–28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20–25 g |
| Fat | 12–15 g |
| Fiber | 4–6 g |
| Sodium | 700–800 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?
Yes, leftover rice works perfectly for the best turkey cabbage casserole recipe with rice! Just make sure it’s reheated or at room temperature before layering it in the casserole to ensure even cooking.
2. How do I store leftovers?
To store the turkey cabbage rice casserole, place leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for the best results.
3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! The best turkey cabbage casserole recipe with rice freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F, adding 15–20 minutes to the baking time.
4. Can I substitute ground turkey with another meat?
Yes! If you’re out of turkey, you can still enjoy this cabbage and rice casserole. Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, beef, or sausage for a slightly different flavor.
5. What’s the best cheese to use?
For the best turkey cabbage casserole recipe with rice, cheddar cheese works best for its rich flavor. You can also use mozzarella for a gooey finish, or Parmesan for a sharper, saltier taste.
6. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Certainly! To make this turkey cabbage casserole vegetarian, swap the ground turkey for cooked lentils, crumbled tofu, or your favorite plant-based meat alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
7. Can I use leftover turkey instead of ground turkey?
Yes, leftover roasted turkey is a great option for this turkey and cabbage rice casserole. Simply shred the turkey and stir it into the cabbage mixture before layering it with rice.
8. How can I make this casserole healthier?
To lighten up the best turkey cabbage casserole recipe with rice:
- Use ground turkey breast instead of regular ground turkey for less fat.
- Replace white rice with cauliflower rice, quinoa, or brown rice for a low-carb, nutrient-packed option.
- Use reduced-fat cheese or omit the cheese altogether.
9. How do I reheat the casserole?
Reheating the best turkey cabbage casserole recipe with rice is easy. Cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes. For individual portions, use the microwave.
10. What if I don’t have diced tomatoes?
No diced tomatoes? No problem! Substitute fresh, chopped tomatoes or tomato puree for your turkey cabbage casserole recipe. Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity and enhance the flavor.
11. Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes! For a dairy-free version of the best turkey cabbage casserole recipe with rice, use dairy-free cheese alternatives or skip the cheese entirely. The casserole will still be hearty and flavorful.heese. The casserole will still be flavorful and hearty.
12. How can I add more protein?
Boost the protein content by:
- Adding a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas to the turkey mixture.
- Using extra turkey or topping the casserole with crumbled bacon after baking.
Conclusion
This best turkey cabbage casserole recipe with rice is a perfect combination of healthy ingredients, comforting flavors, and easy preparation. It’s a versatile dish that works for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even special family gatherin
With its layers of seasoned ground turkey, tender cabbage, and fluffy rice, all baked under a gooey cheese topping, this casserole will quickly become a favorite in your home. Plus, the recipe is flexible—you can adjust it to suit different dietary needs and flavor preferences.
So, grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and give this recipe a try today. It’s a delicious, satisfying meal that will bring everyone to the table!