This comforting “Woodruff Special” is a hearty German-inspired casserole that combines savory ground beef, tangy sauerkraut, and fluffy rice. Layers of cabbage leaves keep the mixture moist while baking, infusing the dish with a subtle, earthy sweetness. Topped with a rich spaghetti sauce and crisp bacon bits, it offers a robust flavor profile perfect for family dinners or potlucks. The slow baking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a warm, satisfying meal that is both economical and delicious.
Woodruff Special
Description
This comforting "Woodruff Special" is a hearty German-inspired casserole that combines savory ground beef, tangy sauerkraut, and fluffy rice. Layers of cabbage leaves keep the mixture moist while baking, infusing the dish with a subtle, earthy sweetness. Topped with a rich spaghetti sauce and crisp bacon bits, it offers a robust flavor profile perfect for family dinners or potlucks. The slow baking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a warm, satisfying meal that is both economical and delicious.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).
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In a skillet, fry the bacon slices until fairly crisp. Remove bacon and set aside, reserving the fat in the skillet.
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Grease a 10x12 inch casserole dish with the reserved bacon fat.
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Tear cabbage leaves and line the bottom of the prepared dish with a layer about 2-3 leaves thick.
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Break up the ground beef and spread it evenly over the cabbage layer.
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Crumble the cooked bacon pieces over the beef.
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Sprinkle the chopped onion, oregano, garlic salt, salt, and pepper evenly over the meat and bacon.
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Spread the cooked rice over the seasoned meat mixture.
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Add the drained sauerkraut on top of the rice.
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Cover the sauerkraut with another layer of cabbage leaves, about 2-3 leaves thick.
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Pour the spaghetti sauce evenly over the top layer of cabbage.
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Cover the dish tightly with foil or a lid.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 3 to 4 hours, until heated through and flavors are melded.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 162.3kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 12.6g20%
- Saturated Fat 4.2g22%
- Cholesterol 13.8mg5%
- Sodium 515.1mg22%
- Total Carbohydrate 0.4g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 0.1g
- Protein 11.1g23%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.