The Easiest Cabbage Lasagna Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting weeknight dinner that feels like a hug in a casserole dish, The Easiest Cabbage Lasagna is about to become your new go-to. This clever twist swaps out traditional noodles for tender layers of cabbage, blanketing a rich, savory meat sauce and gooey cheese. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this dish has all the classic flavors you love with a lighter, veggie-forward touch. Whether you’re stuck with a surplus of cabbage or simply craving lasagna with a twist, this recipe is sheer magic with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in The Easiest Cabbage Lasagna plays a starring role, building layers of flavor that make this dish irresistibly satisfying. You’ll find the basics are likely already in your kitchen — each one is essential for a perfect balance of richness, freshness, and that lasagna magic.

• Cabbage: Use a medium head of green cabbage; its sturdy leaves soften beautifully and take the place of noodles in this recipe.
• Ground beef (or turkey): Provides heartiness and those classic Italian meat sauce flavors; turkey works just as well if you want a lighter option.
• Onion: Adds savory depth and sweetness to the meat sauce foundation.
• Garlic: One or two cloves will make the whole kitchen smell incredible while giving the sauce a lovely zing.
• Crushed tomatoes: Bring everything together into a luscious, simmered sauce that soaks into the cabbage layers.
• Dried Italian herbs: Oregano, basil, and thyme infuse the sauce with that unmistakable Italian flair.
• Ricotta cheese: Adds the signature creamy, tangy filling you expect in any lasagna.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts into those dreamy, stringy layers everyone wants in their lasagna.
• Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top, it creates a savory, golden crust.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer to perfection.
• Olive oil: Gives your saute a subtle, fruity richness.

How to Make The Easiest Cabbage Lasagna

Step 1: Prep the Cabbage

Start by removing the outer leaves from your cabbage and slicing it in half. Carefully cut away the core, then peel off the largest, most intact leaves you can manage. Boil these leaves in salted water for about 3–4 minutes, just until they’re pliable. Drain them well and let them cool on a towel — they’ll become your lasagna “noodles”.

Step 2: Make the Savory Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, then stir in minced garlic. Add the ground beef (or turkey), breaking it apart as it browns. Once cooked through, pour in the crushed tomatoes and Italian herbs. Let this mixture simmer for at least 10 minutes, bubbling away until the flavors meld. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesy Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with a handful of grated Parmesan, a pinch of salt, and some black pepper. Give it a good stir – this creamy layer will add so much satisfaction to each bite of The Easiest Cabbage Lasagna.

Step 4: Layer the Lasagna

Grab your favorite baking dish (9×13 inches works perfectly). Spread a little meat sauce on the bottom, followed by a single layer of cabbage leaves. Add a layer of ricotta mixture, more meat sauce, and a generous handful of mozzarella. Repeat these layers, finishing with cabbage, the last of the sauce, and a final blanket of mozzarella and Parmesan.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Cover your dish with foil and bake in a 375°F oven for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, until the cheese is gooey and golden. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before slicing — this helps the layers hold together and makes serving even easier.

How to Serve The Easiest Cabbage Lasagna

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley livens up each plate, while a dusting of extra Parmesan is always welcome. For extra flavor, try a light drizzle of olive oil or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you’re after a bit of heat.

Side Dishes

The Easiest Cabbage Lasagna pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or a simple dish of garlic bread to soak up every bit of that savory sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party twist, slice the lasagna into smaller squares and serve on a platter with toothpicks as a hearty appetizer. Or, stack individual portions in ramekins for a personalized touch that’s as fun to eat as it is to look at!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let The Easiest Cabbage Lasagna cool to room temperature before covering tightly and refrigerating. It will keep beautifully for up to 4 days, making it a lifesaver for quick weekday lunches or dinners.

Freezing

This lasagna freezes surprisingly well. Slice it into portions, wrap individually, and store in airtight containers or freezer bags. It keeps its flavor and texture for up to three months — perfect for making ahead!

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave individual slices for a couple of minutes until hot, or cover your dish and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through. The cheese will melt all over again, and those cabbage layers stay tender and delicious.

FAQs

Can I make The Easiest Cabbage Lasagna vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ground meat for cooked lentils or sautéed mushrooms for a satisfying vegetarian version that still packs a savory punch.

Do I have to boil the cabbage first?

Boiling the cabbage makes the leaves pliable and ensures your lasagna layers hold together without being tough. It only takes a few minutes and makes a noticeable difference!

Can I assemble The Easiest Cabbage Lasagna ahead of time?

Yes — you can layer everything together a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This makes it perfect for busy weeks or prepping before guests arrive.

What kind of cabbage works best?

Green cabbage is preferred for its size and ability to hold up during baking, but you can experiment with savoy or Napa cabbage for a different flavor and texture.

How do I keep the lasagna from getting watery?

Be sure to drain the cabbage leaves well after boiling and simmer your sauce until it thickens, which helps prevent extra moisture in the baked dish.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a simple yet seriously satisfying meal to impress yourself, family, or friends, The Easiest Cabbage Lasagna is the answer. It’s hearty, wholesome, and packed with familiar flavors you crave — all with a clever, veggie-packed twist. Give it a try, and you’ll soon see why it’s destined for repeat appearances in your kitchen!

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