Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole (Cajun Louisiana)

Looking for a different treatment for cabbage? Try this spicy cheese-topped dish that has been Cajunized.

1 lb ground beef
1 medium green pepper, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
½ cup long grain rice, uncooked
1 tsp. sea salt
½ tsp. dried basil
½ tsp. dried oregano
¼-½ tsp. white pepper, freshly ground
¼-½ tsp. black pepper, freshly ground
¼-½ tsp. ground cayenne pepper
4-6 drops hot pepper sauce
1 small head cabbage, chopped
1 cup Colby cheese, shredded

Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C/160°C fan, Gas Mark 4).

In a skillet, cook the beef, green pepper, onion and garlic over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in tomatoes, tomato sauce, rice, seasonings and hot sauce.

Spread into an ungreased 9x13” baking dish. Top with the cabbage and cheese. Cover and bake for 65-75 minutes or until the rice is tender.

Makes 8 servings.