Easy Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that comes together quickly and fills your kitchen with inviting aromas, this Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is the answer. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that perfectly balances tender cabbage with savory ground beef, layered with a rich sauce and baked to golden perfection. Whether you want a family-friendly weeknight dinner or a cozy dish to warm you up, this casserole delivers every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and simple ingredients make this casserole a breeze to whip up on busy days.
  • Comfort in Every Bite: Warm, savory flavors combined with tender cabbage create a satisfying and filling experience.
  • Budget-Friendly: Ground beef and cabbage are affordable staples, making this a wallet-friendly dinner option.
  • One-Dish Meal: Everything cooks together in one casserole dish, which means less cleanup.
  • Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients and seasoning to suit your family’s taste or dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, delivering texture, flavor, or color, while being easy to source and prepare.

  • Ground Beef: Use lean or regular; browning it well unlocks rich flavor and juicy texture.
  • Green Cabbage: Sliced thin for tenderness, it adds a mild sweetness and crunch that softens during baking.
  • Onion: Diced onion provides a subtle sharpness and depth of flavor.
  • Garlic: Fresh minced garlic boosts the savory aroma and taste.
  • Tomato Sauce: Adds moisture and a hint of acidity that brightens the dish beautifully.
  • Cheese: Shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella melts perfectly on top, adding gooey richness.
  • Spices and Herbs: Salt, pepper, paprika, or thyme enhance the overall flavor profile without overpowering.
  • Olive Oil: For sautéing ingredients and ensuring everything stays moist during baking.

Variations for Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

The best part about this recipe is how adaptable it is, allowing you to mix things up based on what’s in your pantry or your preferences.

  • Swap to Ground Turkey or Chicken: Use lighter meats to reduce fat and calories without losing protein.
  • Add Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for more color and nutrition.
  • Spice It Up: Include chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
  • Use Different Cheeses: Try feta, gouda, or Parmesan for unique flavor variations.
  • Make it Keto-Friendly: Skip the tomato sauce and add heavy cream or sour cream to keep it low-carb.
Easy Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

How to Make Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by slicing the cabbage into thin strips and dicing the onion and garlic. Setting these aside will speed up the cooking process.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, warm a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Remove excess fat if desired.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Mix in Cabbage and Spices

Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and stir well. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, or thyme. Cook for another 5 minutes until the cabbage softens slightly.

Step 5: Combine with Tomato Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce and mix thoroughly, letting the flavors meld for a couple more minutes before removing from heat.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the beef and cabbage mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top to create a golden crust as it bakes.

Step 7: Bake

Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with lightly browned edges.

Pro Tips for Making Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

  • Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: Slightly undercook it during stovetop cooking to prevent mushiness after baking.
  • Use Sharp Cheese: A flavorful cheese will intensify the savory notes in the casserole.
  • Drain Excess Fat: Removing extra grease after browning the beef keeps the dish from becoming oily.
  • Layer Evenly: Spread ingredients uniformly for consistent baking and flavor balance.
  • Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to set the layers.

How to Serve Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives to brighten the flavors and add a pop of color that complements the baked cheese top.

Side Dishes

Serve with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. Roasted potatoes or steamed green beans also pair wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or muffin tins for easy portioning and an elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully; transfer to a freezer-safe dish and freeze for up to 2 months, perfect for quick future meals.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through to keep the cheese melted and layers intact.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cabbage in this casserole?

Yes! While green cabbage is classic, savoy or Napa cabbage can add a different texture and flavor that works well in this dish.

Is ground beef the only meat option for this recipe?

Not at all. Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes can be used depending on dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake later?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking as directed.

How spicy is the original recipe?

The base recipe is mild, but you can easily adjust the heat by adding chili flakes or hot sauce if you prefer more spice.

What’s the best cheese to use for the topping?

Cheddar and mozzarella are great options for meltability and flavor, but feel free to experiment with combinations like Monterey Jack or Gruyère.

Final Thoughts

This Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is a true kitchen champion for anyone craving a homey, nourishing meal without fuss. Its effortless preparation, balanced flavors, and adaptability make it one of those recipes you’ll return to over and over. Go ahead, give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!

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