Cabbage & Ground Beef Casserole: A Hearty, Flavor-Packed Comfort Classic

When you think about comfort food that’s both wholesome and satisfying, Cabbage & Ground Beef Casserole should be one of the first dishes that comes to mind. It’s simple, it’s filling, and it’s packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a big family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this casserole delivers on taste, nutrition, and ease. In this long-form guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the perfect Cabbage & Ground Beef Casserole—from the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to variations, serving tips, FAQs, and more.

Why You’ll Love This Cabbage & Ground Beef Casserole

There’s something timeless about cabbage and beef coming together in a warm, cheesy casserole. It’s a recipe that many of us grew up on, but it still holds up as a delicious and convenient option today. Here’s why it deserves a place in your meal rotation:

• Budget-Friendly: Both cabbage and ground beef are affordable and readily available ingredients.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters tend to come back for seconds thanks to the cheesy, savory layers.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Makes generous portions and stores beautifully.
• Nutrient-Packed: Full of protein, fiber, and vitamins.

This Cabbage & Ground Beef Casserole recipe truly checks all the boxes.

Ingredients Breakdown: What You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the core ingredients that make this dish shine. All of these work together to build layers of flavor, texture, and heartiness.

For the Casserole Base:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease or try ground turkey for a lighter alternative.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and depth.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: For an aromatic punch.
• 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups): The hero of the dish. Mild, tender, and nutritious.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice): Brings moisture and a touch of acidity.
• 1 cup tomato sauce: Helps bind the mixture and adds rich tomato flavor.
• 1 cup cooked rice (optional): Adds bulk and makes the casserole even more filling.
• 1 tsp paprika: Adds warmth and a mild smokiness.
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano: Classic seasoning that pairs beautifully with tomatoes and beef.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to bring everything together.

For the Topping:

• 1–2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work well): Melts into a golden, bubbly top layer.
• Olive oil for cooking: Just a splash to sauté the veggies and brown the beef.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s walk through the full process of making the ultimate Cabbage & Ground Beef Casserole. This recipe is straightforward, even for beginner cooks.

1. Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

2. Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent (about 3–4 minutes). Toss in the garlic and sauté for another minute.

Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain any excess fat. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to let the flavors meld. If using rice, stir it in now.

3. Soften the Cabbage

In another large skillet or a deep pot, add a splash of water and the chopped cabbage. Cover and cook over medium heat for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is slightly tender. Don’t overcook—it’ll continue softening in the oven.

4. Assemble the Casserole

In your prepared baking dish, layer half of the softened cabbage, then half of the beef mixture. Repeat with the remaining cabbage and beef mixture.

Top generously with shredded cheese.

5. Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This makes slicing and plating much easier.

Delicious Variations to Try

This Cabbage & Ground Beef Casserole is endlessly versatile. Here are some tasty twists you can try:

Swap the Protein:

• Use ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute.

Boost the Veggies:

• Add carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and color.

Make It Spicy:

• Mix in red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños for a kick.

Low-Carb Option:

• Omit the rice and use cauliflower rice instead.

Different Cheeses:

• Try gouda, pepper jack, or a blend for a different cheese flavor profile.

Nutritional Benefits of Cabbage & Ground Beef Casserole

This dish isn’t just comforting—it’s also packed with nutrients:

• Cabbage: High in vitamin C, K, and fiber.
• Ground Beef: A solid source of protein and iron.
• Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants and lycopene.
• Onions and Garlic: Offer immune-boosting properties.
• Cheese: Adds calcium and protein.

When balanced with cooked rice or served with a healthy side, this Cabbage & Ground Beef Casserole is a complete, satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

Not sure what to serve with your casserole? Here are some great pairings:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up that savory tomato sauce.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A cool, creamy topping.
• Side Salad: Lightens up the meal with fresh greens.
• Roasted Veggies: Carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts make hearty sides.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

This casserole is a meal prepper’s dream. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

Refrigerating:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

• Let the casserole cool completely. Wrap individual portions or the whole dish in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

• For individual portions, microwave on medium heat for 2–3 minutes.
• For larger portions, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?
Yes, red cabbage will work just fine, but it may slightly alter the taste and color. Green cabbage is more traditional for this Cabbage & Ground Beef Casserole, but red cabbage adds a pop of color and a subtle sweetness.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?
To make it keto-friendly, skip the rice and double-check your tomato products for added sugars. You can even swap the tomato sauce for crushed tomatoes with no sugar added.

Can I prepare it in advance?
Absolutely! Assemble everything ahead of time, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to eat, just bake it as directed.

What’s the best cheese for this casserole?
Cheddar and mozzarella are both excellent choices, but feel free to use Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a spicy pepper jack for added flavor.

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative or simply skip the cheese altogether. The casserole is still delicious without it.

What should I do if my casserole turns out watery?
If the casserole ends up with excess liquid, it’s usually due to the cabbage or tomatoes releasing moisture. To fix it, you can bake it uncovered for a few extra minutes, or try sautéing the cabbage a bit longer before assembling.

Conclusion

When it comes to hearty meals that hit the spot every single time, Cabbage & Ground Beef Casserole stands out as a true comfort food classic. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and filled with ingredients that nourish and satisfy. Whether you’re serving it for a busy weeknight dinner, preparing meals in advance, or feeding a hungry family, this casserole has got you covered.

Try it once, and you’ll quickly see why it’s become a staple in kitchens everywhere. With layers of juicy beef, tender cabbage, rich tomato flavor, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is the perfect marriage of flavor and function. Make it part of your regular recipe rotation—you won’t regret it!

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