Hearty Cabbage And Ground Beef Casserole

Cabbage and ground beef might not sound glamorous, but this casserole is pure comfort in a baking dish. It reminds me of the kind of meal my grandmother would make—simple, hearty, and packed with flavor.

She had a way of turning humble ingredients into something special, and this dish is proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients to create a meal that brings everyone to the table.

I remember the first time I made this casserole on a chilly evening. The scent of simmering beef and garlic filled my kitchen, mingling with the slightly sweet aroma of cabbage as it softened. When I pulled it out of the oven, golden cheese bubbling on top, I couldn’t wait to dig in.

One bite, and I was hooked—it was rich, satisfying, and surprisingly balanced. The cabbage adds a slight crunch, the tomatoes bring a touch of acidity, and the beef ties everything together with its savory depth.

This dish has since become a staple in my home, especially when I want something easy yet nourishing. It’s budget-friendly, packed with wholesome ingredients, and even better the next day. If you love stuffed cabbage rolls but don’t have time for all the rolling and stuffing, this casserole is the perfect solution.

Short Description

This Hearty Cabbage & Ground Beef Casserole is a cozy, budget-friendly dish that combines tender cabbage, seasoned beef, and a rich tomato sauce. Layered with rice and baked to perfection, it’s a fuss-free comfort meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Key Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

Tools Needed

• Large skillet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon
• Baking dish (9×13-inch recommended)
• Aluminum foil

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onion

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion turns soft. Drain excess grease to keep the casserole from getting greasy.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in the minced garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to develop the flavors.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Place half of the chopped cabbage in the greased baking dish. Spread half of the beef mixture on top. Repeat with the remaining cabbage and beef.

Step 5: Bake Covered

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. This allows the cabbage to soften and absorb all the flavors.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Bake Again

Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top (if using). Return to the oven and bake for 10 more minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to scoop out portions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.

Nutritious & Filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and wholesome veggies.

Easy to Make: No rolling, stuffing, or complicated steps.

Great for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day!

Comforting & Satisfying: A warm, hearty meal the whole family will love.

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

1. Using raw rice instead of cooked rice

Solution: Pre-cook your rice before adding it to the casserole to prevent a dry, undercooked texture.

2. Not draining the beef properly

Solution: Remove excess grease after browning the beef to prevent a greasy dish.

3. Overcooking the cabbage

Solution: Stick to the 40-minute baking time with foil on, so the cabbage softens without turning mushy.

4. Skipping the resting time

Solution: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving to help the layers hold together.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

– Side Dish: Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for an extra hearty meal.
– Salad Pairing: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness.
– Drink Pairing: Try it with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage:
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating:
Oven: Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat individual servings in 30-second intervals until warm.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works great as a lighter option.

3. What’s the best cheese to use for topping?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack all melt beautifully on top.

4. How can I make this dish low-carb?
Swap the rice for cauliflower rice or leave it out entirely.

5. Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes! Carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms make great additions.

Tips & Tricks

– For deeper flavor, brown the beef well before adding the tomatoes.
– Want a little spice? Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
– For a smoky twist, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.

Recipe Variations

1. Tex-Mex Style:

Swap Worcestershire sauce for taco seasoning.
Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
Add black beans and diced green chilies for extra flavor.

2. Italian-Inspired:

Use Italian seasoning instead of paprika.
Add shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Serve with a side of garlic bread.

3. Low-Carb Version:

Replace the rice with riced cauliflower.
Use ground turkey for a leaner option.
Add extra veggies like zucchini or spinach.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Cabbage & Ground Beef Casserole is one of those meals that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s warm, filling, and packed with flavor, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

I love how it transforms simple ingredients into something incredibly satisfying, and the best part? Leftovers taste even better the next day. Give it a try—I promise you won’t be disappointed!