Get ready to dive into a warm, cheesy hug with this Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole! It’s a delightful mix of tender ground beef, vibrant cabbage, and gooey cheese, all baked to perfection. The best part? It’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Just layer everything in a dish, let the oven work its magic, and soon you’ll have a bubbling, golden masterpiece that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Trust me, this dish will become a family favorite in no time!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Trust me, you’re going to love the creamy, cheesy goodness!
- This one’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners—quick and easy!
- It’s a hearty dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition.
- Perfect for using up that cabbage sitting in your fridge!
- Leftovers? They taste even better the next day!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Casserole |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 45 minutes |
| Total Time: | 1 hour |
| Dietary: | Gluten-free |
| Serves: | 6 |
| Best Served: | Hot |
Ingredients
- Cabbage – adds a hearty texture and absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Ground Beef – the main protein source, providing richness and flavor.
- Onion – enhances the overall taste with its savory sweetness.
- Garlic – adds a fragrant kick that elevates the dish.
- Cheddar Cheese – brings creaminess and a delicious cheesy flavor.
- Tomato Sauce – adds moisture and a tangy base to the casserole.
- Beef Broth – keeps the casserole moist and infuses it with beefy goodness.
- Italian Seasoning – a blend of herbs that adds depth and aroma.
- Salt and Pepper – essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- Olive Oil – used for sautéing and adds a touch of richness.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to whip up a delicious Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole with these easy steps!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and toasty when your casserole is ready to bake.
Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage
Chop half a head of cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Rinse it under cold water and set it aside to drain.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, brown 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink.
Step 4: Add Seasonings
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine the flavors.
Step 5: Mix in the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet with the beef. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 minutes until the cabbage starts to wilt.
Step 6: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup of milk until smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Combine Ingredients
Pour the cheese sauce over the beef and cabbage mixture. Stir until everything is well coated and cheesy goodness is everywhere!
Step 8: Transfer to Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the mixture into it, spreading it evenly.
Step 9: Top with More Cheese
Sprinkle an additional 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top for that extra cheesy layer.
Step 10: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 11: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, then scoop out a hearty portion. Enjoy your comforting Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use fresh cabbage for a crisp texture and vibrant flavor.
- For extra creaminess, mix in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Layer the ingredients in a baking dish for even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
How to Serve
- Top with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness.
- Pair with a light salad dressed in vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Enjoy with a side of roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle with red pepper flakes before serving.
- Serve in individual ramekins for a fun, personal touch.
- Complement with a glass of sparkling water infused with lemon or lime.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole fresh:
- Allow the casserole to cool completely.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
- Label the container with the date.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
For long-term storage, follow these steps:
- Cool the casserole completely before freezing.
- Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To enjoy your casserole again:
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe dish and cover.
- Add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat in the casserole?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for beef. They will still provide a hearty base for the casserole while keeping it lighter. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
What can I use instead of cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or a plant-based cheese alternative. These options will still give you that creamy texture without the dairy.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the mix. You can also use a spicy cheese blend for an extra kick!
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy a comforting meal without the hassle of prep time.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your new favorite comfort dish, Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole! It’s simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Gather your loved ones, serve it up, and watch their faces light up with joy. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. So roll up your sleeves and dive into this cheesy goodness—you won’t regret it!
Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet For cooking the beef and cabbage.
- 1 9×13 inch baking dish For baking the casserole.
- 1 mixing bowl For preparing the cheese sauce.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1/2 head Cabbage Chopped into bite-sized pieces.
- 1 medium Onion Diced.
Protein
- 1 pound Ground Beef Main protein source.
Dairy
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Shredded, for mixing and topping.
- 1 cup Sour Cream For the cheese sauce.
- 1/2 cup Milk For the cheese sauce.
Condiments & Seasonings
- 1 cup Tomato Sauce Adds moisture and tang.
- 1 cup Beef Broth Keeps the casserole moist.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder For flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder For flavor.
- to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for flavor enhancement.
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil For sautéing.
Herbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning For added depth.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cooking
- Chop the cabbage and rinse it under cold water.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef.
- Mix in the chopped cabbage and cook until it starts to wilt.
- In a separate bowl, mix sour cream, cheddar cheese, and milk until smooth.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the beef and cabbage mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with additional cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
