Turkey and cabbage might not be the first combo that comes to mind, but together they create a hearty, comforting casserole that’s perfect for any night of the week. This recipe blends lean turkey with tender cabbage and fluffy rice, making a wholesome dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. It’s a great way to use simple ingredients while packing in flavor and texture.
We love how easy this casserole comes together, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and versatile—you can customize it with your favorite spices or add some cheese for extra richness. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this turkey cabbage casserole with rice is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Ingredients
To make the Best Turkey Cabbage Casserole Recipe With Rice, we combine simple and wholesome ingredients that deliver robust flavor and hearty satisfaction. Below, you’ll find everything you need sorted for convenience and clarity.
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey (lean, preferably 93% lean)
- 4 cups shredded cabbage (about 1/2 medium head)
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasonings and Spices
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a subtle kick)
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (for extra moisture and flavor)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (to add creaminess when serving)
| Ingredient Category | Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Main Ingredients | Ground turkey | 1 pound |
| Shredded cabbage | 4 cups | |
| Uncooked long-grain white rice | 1 1/2 cups | |
| Low-sodium chicken broth | 3 cups | |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium | |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | |
| Seasonings and Spices | Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | |
| Dried thyme | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Dried oregano | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | 1/4 teaspoon | |
| Optional Ingredients | Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish) | 1/4 cup | |
| Diced tomatoes | 1/2 cup | |
| Sour cream (for serving) | 1/4 cup |
These ingredients work harmoniously to give us a nutritious, flavor-packed casserole that’s perfect for any family dinner or meal prep plan.
Equipment Needed
To make the Best Turkey Cabbage Casserole Recipe With Rice perfectly, we rely on a few essential pieces of kitchen equipment. Having these tools ready ensures smooth preparation and ideal cooking results.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Skillet or Sauté Pan | To brown the lean ground turkey evenly and sauté the cabbage |
| Medium Saucepan | To cook the long-grain white rice until tender |
| 9×13 Inch Baking Dish | To assemble and bake the casserole, allowing even heat distribution |
| Mixing Spoon or Spatula | For stirring ingredients during cooking and mixing the casserole |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | To measure rice, broth, seasonings, and other key ingredients precisely |
| Knife and Cutting Board | To shred the cabbage and chop any optional add-ins like diced tomatoes or herbs |
| Aluminum Foil or Oven-Safe Lid | To cover the casserole during baking, preventing moisture loss |
We recommend using a non-stick skillet for browning turkey as it minimizes sticking and makes cleanup easier. Additionally, a fork or whisk helps fluff the cooked rice before combining with other ingredients.
This setup provides everything we need to assemble and bake a flavorful, nutritious casserole that melds turkey, cabbage, and rice beautifully.
Prep Work
Before assembling our Best Turkey Cabbage Casserole Recipe With Rice, proper preparation ensures every element melds perfectly. Let’s break down the essential steps to get our ingredients ready efficiently.
Preparing the Turkey
- Use 1 pound of lean ground turkey for a tender, flavorful base.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Brown the turkey evenly until no longer pink and slightly golden on the edges—this enhances flavor and texture.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet to keep the casserole light.
- Season the turkey immediately with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and any other chosen spices to infuse flavor deeply as it cooks.
Preparing the Cabbage
- Measure 4 cups of shredded cabbage—green or savoy works well.
- Use a sharp knife or mandoline to finely shred the cabbage for even cooking.
- In the same skillet used for turkey, add a splash of olive oil if needed.
- Sauté the cabbage over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until tender but still slightly crisp.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper to enhance natural cabbage sweetness.
- Remove from heat and set aside for layering in the casserole.
Cooking the Rice
- Use 1 1/2 cups of uncooked long-grain white rice for a fluffy texture.
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rice with 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth.
- Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 18 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it stand covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff rice gently with a fork before mixing into the casserole.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparations |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Turkey | 1 pound | Brown and season |
| Shredded Cabbage | 4 cups | Shred finely and sauté |
| Long-grain White Rice | 1 1/2 cups (uncooked) | Rinse and cook in chicken broth |
| Low-sodium Chicken Broth | 3 cups | Use to cook rice |
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create the best turkey cabbage casserole recipe with rice that is both flavorful and hearty. We ensure every element is perfectly cooked and combined for a balanced meal.
Cooking the Turkey
- Preheat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 pound of lean ground turkey to the skillet.
- Break the turkey into small pieces using a spatula.
- Season with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika to enhance the flavor.
- Cook for 7 to 10 minutes until the turkey is browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally.
- Drain any excess fat if necessary and set the turkey aside.
Sautéing the Cabbage
- Using the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
- Add 4 cups of shredded cabbage to the skillet.
- Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Sauté the cabbage for 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes tender but still slightly crisp.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Remove from heat.
Combining Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
- Cooked turkey
- Sautéed cabbage
- 1 1/2 cups cooked long-grain white rice (fluffed)
- Optional: 1 cup diced tomatoes (with juice)
- Optional: 1 cup shredded cheese for added richness
- Gently fold all ingredients until thoroughly mixed.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lean ground turkey | 1 pound | Cooked and seasoned |
| Shredded cabbage | 4 cups | Sautéed until tender |
| Cooked white rice | 1 1/2 cups | Fluffed before mixing |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 cup (optional) | Adds moisture and flavor |
| Shredded cheese | 1 cup (optional) | For topping or mixing |
Baking the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Transfer the combined mixture into the baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or an oven-safe lid.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
- Optional: Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes and sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Best Turkey Cabbage Casserole Recipe With Rice, we recommend pairing it thoughtfully to enhance its hearty flavors and balanced nutrition. Here are several serving ideas to complement this dish perfectly:
- Fresh Side Salad
A crisp green salad with mixed lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness, adding refreshing contrast.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables
Consider steamed carrots, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts to boost texture and provide additional nutrients.
- Creamy Sauce or Dip
A dollop of sour cream or a light yogurt-based dill sauce pairs beautifully, adding subtle creaminess and zest.
- Warm Bread or Rolls
Serve with warm crusty bread or whole grain dinner rolls to soak up the flavorful casserole juices.
- Pickled Vegetables
Tangy pickled cucumbers or beets can add an exciting flavor twist and brighten the palate.
| Serving Idea | Description | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Side Salad | Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, vinaigrette | Adds crispness and freshness |
| Steamed/Roasted Veggies | Carrots, green beans, Brussels sprouts | Offers nutrition and varied textures |
| Creamy Sauce or Dip | Sour cream, yogurt dill sauce | Introduces smoothness and tanginess |
| Warm Bread or Rolls | Crusty or whole grain | Perfect for soaking up casserole juices |
| Pickled Vegetables | Pickled cucumbers or beets | Enhances flavor with acidity |
“Serving our turkey cabbage casserole alongside light and vibrant sides balances its comforting, robust profile while maintaining a wholesome meal.”
When plating, we suggest garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or green onions to add a pop of color and subtle freshness. For drinks, a chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or a sparkling water with lemon complements the dish without overpowering the flavors.
These serving suggestions ensure the Best Turkey Cabbage Casserole Recipe With Rice shines at every meal occasion, whether casual family dinners or planned meal preps for the week.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To maximize convenience and maintain the rich flavors of our Best Turkey Cabbage Casserole Recipe With Rice, following proper storage and make-ahead strategies is essential. Here’s a detailed guide to help us preserve the dish’s freshness and texture efficiently.
How to Store Leftovers
- Cool Completely: Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
- Refrigeration: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a sealed, freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with aluminum foil and plastic wrap. It will keep well for up to 3 months.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Maximum Storage Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Airtight container | 4 days | Reheat gently to avoid dryness |
| Freezing | Freezer-safe container or wrap | 3 months | Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating |
Reheating Instructions
- From Refrigerated: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover casserole with foil to retain moisture. Warm for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
- From Frozen: Thaw in refrigerator overnight. Reheat following the above method. For microwave reheating, cover and heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring between.
Make-Ahead Preparation Tips
- Assemble in Advance: Prepare the entire casserole up to the baking step. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Partial Cooking: Brown turkey and sauté cabbage ahead then combine with rice and store in the baking dish, ready to bake fresh.
- Freezer-Ready Casserole: Assemble completely but do not bake. Wrap tightly and freeze. Bake from frozen adding about 15-20 minutes to baking time.
“Planning ahead helps retain flavor and texture while making meal prep stress-free.”
Quick Reference Table for Make-Ahead and Storage
| Step | Refrigerator | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Assemble, Unbaked | Up to 24 hours | Up to 3 months |
| Cooked Leftovers | Up to 4 days | Up to 3 months |
| Reheat Time (Oven) | 20-25 minutes | 35-45 minutes (from frozen) |
By following these storage and make-ahead tips, we can enjoy our flavorful turkey cabbage casserole anytime without compromising quality or taste.
Conclusion
This turkey cabbage casserole with rice is a perfect blend of wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors. It’s a versatile dish that fits seamlessly into busy schedules while offering a nutritious meal everyone will enjoy.
With simple preparation, customizable options, and easy storage, it’s a recipe we can rely on for both weeknight dinners and meal prepping. Give it a try and make it a staple in your kitchen rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for the turkey and cabbage casserole?
You need lean ground turkey, shredded cabbage, long-grain white rice, low-sodium chicken broth, and seasonings like smoked paprika. Optional additions include diced tomatoes and shredded cheese for extra flavor.
What kitchen equipment do I need to prepare this casserole?
You’ll need a large skillet or sauté pan, a medium saucepan for rice, a 9×13 inch baking dish, mixing spoon, measuring tools, knife and cutting board, and aluminum foil or an oven-safe lid.
How do I prepare the turkey and cabbage for the casserole?
Brown 1 pound of ground turkey in a non-stick skillet with seasonings. Finely shred and sauté 4 cups of cabbage until tender before mixing with the cooked turkey and rice.
What is the cooking process for this casserole?
Cook turkey and cabbage separately, prepare fluffy rice in chicken broth, combine all ingredients in a baking dish, optionally add cheese, then bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes.
Can I customize the casserole recipe?
Yes, you can add spices like smoked paprika, diced tomatoes, or shredded cheese to enhance the flavor and tailor it to your family’s tastes.
What are some good serving suggestions?
Serve with a fresh side salad, steamed or roasted veggies, creamy sauces, warm bread, or pickled vegetables. Garnish with parsley or green onions and pair with white wine or sparkling water.
How should I store leftovers?
Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble in advance or partially cook ingredients to simplify meal prep and save time on busy days.
Is this casserole budget-friendly?
Yes, it uses simple, affordable ingredients like turkey, cabbage, and rice, making it an economical and nutritious meal option.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It’s easy to prepare in bulk, stores well in the fridge or freezer, and reheats nicely for quick, healthy meals during the week.