Cabbage Patch Casserole

INGREDIENTS

1 lb

breakfast sausage, Italian sausage or ground beef

2 1/2 cups

chopped onion

1/2 cup

chopped green or red bell pepper

1 tbsp

minced garlic

1 cup

beef stock/broth or water

1 15 ounce can

of diced tomatoes , undrained

1/2 tbsp

Worcestershire sauce

1/2 tsp

mixed dried herbs, such as herbes de provence

1/2 tsp

Cavender's or other all purpose seasoning

3 tbsp

uncooked long grain rice

6 cups

coarsely chopped, raw cabbage

2 cups

shredded cheddar cheese , optional