This hearty and comforting dish combines tender cabbage with seasoned minced meat, a flavorful sauce, and melted mozzarella. It’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy dinner.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- Cabbage: 1 small, cut into thick pieces
- Salt: To taste
- Provencal Herbs: 1 teaspoon
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Minced Meat: 450 grams (1 lb)
- Pepper: To taste
- Spring Onion: 2 stalks, chopped
- Sweet Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Dried Parsley: 1 teaspoon
- Granulated Garlic: 1 teaspoon
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Sour Cream: 100 grams (3.5 oz)
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
- Dill: 1 tablespoon, chopped
- Mozzarella for Pizza: 100 grams (3.5 oz), shredded
- Water: As needed
Directions
- Prepare the Cabbage: Cut the cabbage into thick pieces and season with salt and Provencal herbs.
- Cook the Minced Meat: In a pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
- Add Minced Meat: Add minced meat to the pan. Season with salt, pepper, spring onion, sweet paprika, dried parsley, and granulated garlic. Cook until the meat is browned.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix sour cream, tomato paste, salt, pepper, and dill. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Combine: Add the sauce to the cooked minced meat mixture and stir well.
- Layer the Dish: In a baking dish, arrange the cabbage pieces. Pour the meat and sauce mixture over the cabbage.
- Add Water: Add a small amount of water to the baking dish to ensure the cabbage cooks properly.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 40 minutes.
- Add Mozzarella: After 40 minutes, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the dish cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with a side of pickles or fresh salad if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a main dish with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.
- Pair with pickles for an extra burst of flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the cabbage is cut into thick pieces to hold up during baking.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cabbage: Rich in vitamins K and C, and antioxidants.
- Minced Meat: Provides protein and essential nutrients.
- Mozzarella: Adds calcium and protein.
Dietary Information
- This recipe contains dairy and meat, and is suitable for omnivores.
- Adjust the recipe to be dairy-free or vegetarian as needed.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, assuming 4 servings)
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 20g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: A filling dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal.
- Flavorful: Combines seasoned meat, creamy sauce, and melted cheese.
- Easy Preparation: Simple steps with minimal fuss.
- Versatile: Enjoy as a main dish or with your favorite sides.
Conclusion
This Savory Cabbage and Minced Meat Bake is a delightful dish that offers comfort and flavor in every bite. With its blend of seasoned meat, tender cabbage, and gooey mozzarella, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this hearty meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of meat?
- Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives.
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
- Yes, use a plant-based meat substitute or mushrooms instead of minced meat.
- How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
- Substitute the sour cream and mozzarella with dairy-free alternatives.
- Can I add other vegetables?
- Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the mix.
- How can I adjust the spice level?
- Increase or decrease the amount of paprika and pepper to suit your taste.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and bake it when ready.
- How do I prevent the cabbage from becoming too soft?
- Make sure the cabbage pieces are thick and avoid over-baking.
- What can I use instead of provencal herbs?
- Try Italian seasoning or a mix of thyme and rosemary.
- Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
- Yes, Greek yogurt is a good substitute for a tangy flavor.
- How should I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze for longer storage.