Description
This hearty and healthy turkey cabbage casserole with rice is the perfect comfort food. Made with lean ground turkey, tender cabbage, and fluffy rice, it’s a nutritious and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Fresh Vegetables
Cabbage – Choose a firm, fresh green cabbage for the best texture and flavor.
Onion – Finely chopped for a mild sweetness and depth of flavor.
Garlic – Minced to enhance the savory profile of the dish.
Diced Tomatoes – Canned, with juice included, to add richness and acidity.
Optional: Carrots or bell peppers for added color and sweetness.
Protein
Ground Turkey – Use lean ground turkey (90% lean or higher) for a healthier option.
Seasonings
Salt and Black Pepper – To enhance the natural flavors.
Garlic Powder – Adds depth to the turkey.
Paprika – Provides a smoky, warm touch.
Chili Flakes – Optional, for a slight heat kick.
Italian Seasoning, Thyme, or Oregano – Optional for extra aromatic depth.
Rice Options
White Rice – Quick-cooking and classic.
Brown Rice – Adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
Basmati or Long-Grain Rice – Ideal for a fluffy, non-sticky texture.
Liquids
Chicken or Vegetable Broth – Keeps the casserole moist and helps cook the rice.
Optional Additions
Shredded Cheese – Cheddar or mozzarella for a creamy, gooey finish.
Instructions
Preparing the Vegetables
Wash and chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Remove the core and slice thinly.
Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
Cooking the Ground Turkey
Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil.
Sauté the onions and garlic until soft and fragrant.
Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns.
Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes if desired.
Cook until the turkey is no longer pink.
Add the diced tomatoes with juice and let simmer for 5–10 minutes.
Assembling the Casserole
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large baking dish, layer half of the chopped cabbage.
Spread the cooked turkey mixture evenly over the cabbage.
Sprinkle uncooked rice over the turkey layer.
Top with the remaining cabbage.
Pour the broth evenly over the layers to ensure the rice cooks properly.
Baking
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes to allow the cabbage to caramelize slightly.
Optional Topping
If using cheese, sprinkle it on top in the last 10 minutes of baking.
Notes
Tips for Best Results
Lightly sauté the cabbage before layering to reduce excess moisture.
Rinse the rice before using to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
Use enough broth to fully submerge the rice for even cooking.
For a richer flavor, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or fresh herbs.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months in portioned, freezer-safe containers.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered, for 15–20 minutes, or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals.
Variations
For a low-carb version, swap rice for cauliflower rice and reduce baking time slightly.
Add extra veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for more nutrients.
Use ground chicken, beef, or pork as an alternative to turkey.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: turkey cabbage casserole, healthy casserole, ground turkey recipe, one-pan meal, easy dinner recipe, meal prep casserole, turkey and rice casserole, family dinner recipe