Easy Ground Pork and Cabbage Casserole Recipe

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Cabbage and Ground Pork Recipes: Ground Pork and Cabbage Casserole

My cabbage and ground pork recipe is possibly the most delicious ground pork and cabbage casserole recipe you’ve ever cooked at home. View the recipe and video below!

➡️ Are you looking for easy ground pork and cabbage casserole recipes? You might quit the search because on this webpage you’ll find out how to make layered cabbage casserole with ground pork and rice similar to Finnish Kaalilaatikko but in the Hungarian style. Ground pork casseroles are very popular these days because pork mince is tasty, easy to cook and accessible at low prices in butcheries and supermarkets alike.

➡️ One of the ingredients that minced pork goes perfectly with is sweet white cabbage, and therefore it’s no wonder that many are looking for recipes that have both as main ingredients. My easy layered cabbage recipe enables you to cook a casserole with pork mince, cabbage, and rice to enjoy a traditional recipe in the Hungarian style.

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How to Cook Ground Pork and Cabbage Casserole from Scratch

➡️ Cooking ground pork casseroles is generally not difficult, and this recipe is no exception to that rule. Watch the cooking video below and learn how to make ground pork and cabbage casserole from scratch using a yummy and easy layered cabbage casserole recipe similar to the authentic version from Finland called kaalilaatikko.

Layered Ground Pork and Cabbage Casserole

The Layered Ground Pork and Cabbage Casserole is a culinary masterpiece that embodies the essence of comfort food. This beloved dish, known for its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, offers a journey through layers of succulent ground pork, tender cabbage, and a symphony of aromatic spices. As each layer melds into the next, it creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that have made it a cherished classic in many households.

At its core, this casserole combines the humble cabbage with the savory depth of ground pork. The cabbage, often thinly sliced or shredded, provides a satisfying crunch and a hint of sweetness, while the ground pork is seasoned to perfection, adding layers of savory richness. Dried marjoram, a cornerstone of this dish, infuses it with its earthy and slightly sweet notes, creating a flavor profile that's both comforting and deeply satisfying.

The Layered Ground Pork and Cabbage Casserole is not only a culinary delight but also a testament to the art of layering flavors. Each bite carries the essence of slow-cooked comfort, and the aroma that wafts from the oven as it bakes is simply irresistible.

Whether you savor it as a warm and satisfying meal on a chilly evening or celebrate its culinary heritage, the Layered Ground Pork and Cabbage Casserole is a timeless classic that continues to captivate taste buds and hearts alike. With its layers of flavor and history, this dish stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of comfort food.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 1

Total Time 1 15

Course Main Course

Cuisine Finnish

Servings 10 servings

Calories

Ingredients

50/1.5 (oz/kg) fresh white cabbage
25/750 (oz/g) ground pork
7/100 (oz/g) yellow onions
10/300 (oz/g) white rice
2 tbsp vegetable oil
½ tsp dried marjoram
salt and ground black pepper to taste
sour cream for serving (optional)

Instructions

shred or wedge the cabbage with a knife.
place the cabbage into a crockpot, add two spoons of oil and a pinch of salt, then place the pot on the stovetop over a very high temperature.
simmer cabbage until it's soft and slightly browned.
in the meantime, boil the rice in salted water until fluffy and soft, then wait to cool for about 15 minutes.
place the pork mince into a skillet, add 2 spoons of oil and some salt to taste, then fry it over a very high temperature until bleached.
meanwhile, peel the onions off and chop them.
when the meat is bleached, add the chopped onions to the skillet, mix and fry the ingredients until golden brown.
place on a deeper tray or into a casserole about half of the cabbage into a layer.
place about half of the fried mince over cabbage into a layer.
sprinkle over some ground black pepper and dried marjoram.
place about half of the boiled rice into a layer over the meat.
place a new layer of fried ground pork, add again some ground black pepper and marjoram (optional,)
make a new layer with the rest of the rice.
place the rest of the cabbage into a layer and press gently the ingredients by your palm or large spoon to compact them.
put the tray or casserole in the oven at 180 C/360 F and bake the dish until it's golden on top (30-40 minutes.)
turn the heat off and let the casserole inside the oven for 15-30 minutes before serving it.
serve the dish topped with some sour cream (optional.)

Video

Notes

Cooking Tips for the Best Results:

Select Fresh Ingredients: Start with high-quality, fresh ingredients. Opt for fresh cabbage, and if possible, choose a variety such as green or Savoy cabbage known for its tenderness and flavor. Fresh ground pork is essential, as it ensures the best taste and texture for your casserole.
Thinly Slice or Shred the Cabbage: For even cooking and a pleasing texture, thinly slice or shred the cabbage. This allows it to cook evenly and absorb the delicious flavors of the other ingredients. A mandoline slicer or a sharp knife can be handy for achieving consistent cabbage slices.
Layer Ingredients Thoughtfully: The key to a successful layered casserole is to assemble it with care. Start with a layer of cabbage at the bottom of the baking dish, followed by a layer of seasoned ground pork and rice. Repeat these layers until your casserole is complete.
Season Each Layer Well: To infuse each layer with flavor, generously season both the thinly sliced or shredded cabbage and the seasoned ground pork. Ensure that you distribute the seasonings evenly as you layer them in the baking dish. This helps create a flavorful and well-seasoned casserole without the need for additional liquid.
Cover and Bake Slowly: Cover your casserole dish with a lid or aluminum foil before placing it in the oven. This helps retain moisture and ensures even cooking. Bake the casserole at a moderate temperature, typically around 350°F (175°C), for an extended period. Slow baking allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.

FAQs about the Layered Ground Pork and Cabbage Casserole Recipe

Can I use a different type of meat besides ground pork?

Absolutely, you can customize the casserole with various ground meats such as beef, chicken, or turkey based on your preferences. Ground pork is traditional and provides a rich flavor, but experimenting with different meats can yield delicious results.

Can I add other vegetables or spices to the casserole for extra flavor?

Certainly, you can customize the casserole to your taste. While the classic version relies on the simplicity of cabbage, ground pork, and rice, you can enhance the flavor by adding spices like garlic, thyme, or bay leaves. Additionally, consider incorporating vegetables like bell peppers or onions for added depth and color.

Should I precook the rice before layering it in the casserole?

Yes, it’s advisable to precook the rice before layering it in the casserole. Boil the rice according to the package instructions until it’s partially cooked or “al dente.” This ensures that the rice is fully cooked and tender when the casserole is finished baking. Precooking the rice also helps it absorb the flavors of the other ingredients more efficiently during baking.

How do I ensure that the cabbage cooks evenly and becomes tender?

To ensure even cooking and tender cabbage, make sure to thinly slice or shred the cabbage. This allows it to cook uniformly as it absorbs the flavors from the other ingredients during baking. Additionally, covering the casserole while baking helps create a moist environment that contributes to the cabbage’s tenderness.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance and reheat it later?

Yes, Layered Ground Pork and Cabbage Casserole can be made in advance. Once baked and cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it. This casserole often tastes even better after flavors have melded together, making it an excellent choice for meal planning.