Why Youโll Love This Recipe
Cabbage Beef Bake is a comforting, hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef, tender cabbage, and a savory tomato-based sauce. It’s an easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also provides a satisfying and nutritious meal packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef
- Cabbage, chopped
- Onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
- Tomato sauce
- Diced tomatoes
- Worcestershire sauce
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Cooked rice (optional for a heartier dish)
- Olive oil
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sautรฉ the onion until soft.
- Add the garlic and ground beef, cooking until the meat is browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for a few minutes.
- In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the chopped cabbage.
- Pour half of the beef mixture over the cabbage and spread evenly.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage and beef mixture.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings:ย 6-8
- Prep Time:ย 15 minutes
- Cook Time:ย 50 minutes
- Total Time:ย 1 hour 5 minutes
Variations
- Low-Carb Option:ย Skip the rice for a keto-friendly version.
- Spicy Kick:ย Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeรฑos.
- Different Meats:ย Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
- Extra Veggies:ย Add bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for more nutrition.
- Cheese Choices:ย Try Parmesan or a Mexican cheese blend for a twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration:ย Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing:ย Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheating:ย Reheat in the oven at 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.
FAQs
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Swap ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to a day in advance. Bake when ready.
What can I serve with Cabbage Beef Bake?
It pairs well with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple green salad.
Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different.
Do I have to cook the cabbage beforehand?
No, it will soften while baking.
What if I donโt have Worcestershire sauce?
You can substitute with soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for a similar depth of flavor.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, but you may need to cook them longer to break down properly.
Whatโs the best cheese to use?
Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella or gouda work well too.
How do I prevent the casserole from getting watery?
Drain excess grease from the beef and avoid overloading with too many watery vegetables.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Conclusion
Cabbage Beef Bake is a simple yet satisfying meal thatโs perfect for any occasion. With its delicious layers of meat, cabbage, and cheese, itโs sure to become a family favorite. Try different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy the ease of making this cozy dish. Whether served fresh or reheated, it’s a comforting classic worth making again and again.
PrintCabbage Beef Bake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Thisย Cabbage Beef Bakeย is a hearty and comforting casserole made with layers of tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce, all baked to perfection. It’s an easy, budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess grease.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread half of the chopped cabbage in the prepared baking dish. Layer half of the beef mixture on top. Repeat with the remaining cabbage and beef mixture.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Remove the foil, sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add some red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
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