Cabbage Beef Bake

Cabbage Beef Bake is a hearty, comforting casserole that combines tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, and a flavorful tomato sauce topped with melted cheese.

This dish is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, offering a delicious way to enjoy a balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and satisfying flavors. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Aluminum foil

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup cooked white or brown rice (optional)

For the Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
   • Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
2. Prepare the Cabbage:
   • In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and blanch the chopped cabbage for 3–4 minutes, then drain. Alternatively, sauté the cabbage in a large skillet with a bit of olive oil until slightly softened.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
   • In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cabbage on the bottom. Spread half of the beef mixture over the cabbage. Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage and beef mixture.
   • If using rice, add a layer of cooked rice between the cabbage and beef layers.
4. Bake the Casserole:
   • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
   • Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve:
   • Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm as a standalone meal or with a side of crusty bread.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

40 minutes

Total Time

55 minutes

Nutrition (Per Serving – Serves 6)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 17g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg

Expert Tips

• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
• Rice-Free Option: For a low-carb version, skip the rice and use extra cabbage or diced zucchini.
• Cheese Variations: Try using Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Parmesan for a unique flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Can I freeze cabbage beef bake?
Yes, freeze the baked casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

Storing & Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Substitutions & Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Swap rice for cauliflower rice or omit it entirely.
• Add Veggies: Include chopped bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

Cabbage Beef Bake

Cabbage Beef Bake is a hearty, comforting casserole that combines tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, and a flavorful tomato sauce topped with melted cheese.

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Equipment

• - Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• - 9x13-inch baking dish
• - Wooden spoon or spatula
• - Aluminum foil

Ingredients

  

• **For the Casserole:**
• - 1 lb ground beef
• - 1 small onion diced
• - 2 garlic cloves minced
• - 1 medium head of cabbage chopped
• - 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, undrained
• - 1 can 8 oz tomato sauce
• - 1 teaspoon paprika
• - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• - 1/2 teaspoon salt
• - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• - 1 cup cooked white or brown rice optional
• **For the Topping:**
• - 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

Instructions

 

• **Prepare the Beef Mixture:**
• - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• - In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
• - Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
• **Prepare the Cabbage:**
• - In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and blanch the chopped cabbage for 3–4 minutes, then drain. Alternatively, sauté the cabbage in a large skillet with a bit of olive oil until slightly softened.
• **Assemble the Casserole:**
• - In a 9x13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cabbage on the bottom. Spread half of the beef mixture over the cabbage. Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage and beef mixture.
• - If using rice, add a layer of cooked rice between the cabbage and beef layers.
• **Bake the Casserole:**
• - Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• - Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• **Serve:**
• - Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm as a standalone meal or with a side of crusty bread.