Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain off excess grease.
Stir in the garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, black pepper, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
Spread half of the chopped cabbage evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Spoon half of the beef mixture over the cabbage, then spread half of the cooked rice on top.
Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage, beef mixture, and rice.
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes, until the cabbage is tender.
If using cheese, remove the foil, sprinkle the cheddar evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until melted and bubbly.
Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
