1. Gather Your Ingredients: Assemble all the ingredients such as ground beef, shredded cabbage, cooked rice, tomato sauce, onions, garlic, seasonings, and optional ingredients (e.g., cheese or bacon).

2. Prepare the Cabbage: Wash the cabbage thoroughly, chop or shred it, and soften it by boiling or steaming briefly.

3. Cook the Meat Mixture: In a skillet, brown the ground beef with chopped onions and minced garlic until fully cooked. Stir in the tomato sauce and seasonings, then let it simmer for 10 minutes.

4. Layer the Ingredients: In a casserole dish, layer the cabbage at the bottom, followed by the cooked meat mixture and rice. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, optionally adding cheese between layers or on top.

5. Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1-2 hours until the dish is heated through and the cheese (if used) is golden and bubbly.

6. Let Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it as is or pair it with sides like garlic parmesan chicken for a complete meal.

7. Store Leftovers Properly: Cool leftovers and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze portions for longer storage.

8. Reheat When Needed: Use an oven (350°F for 20-30 minutes) or microwave in intervals to reheat the casserole, ensuring even warming.