There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy casserole to bring comfort to the dinner table. This Cheesy Cabbage & Beef Casserole is a perfect blend of hearty ground beef, tender cabbage, and melty cheddar cheese, making it an irresistible dish for the whole family. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying yet easy to put together.
Cabbage may not always be the first ingredient that comes to mind when thinking of a delicious meal, but in this casserole, it adds a subtle sweetness and a hearty texture that pairs beautifully with the savory beef and rich tomato sauce. The blend of garlic, paprika, and oregano enhances the flavors, creating a dish that is both comforting and well-seasoned.
Baked to perfection with a generous layer of melted cheddar cheese, this casserole is a wonderful one-pan meal that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum satisfaction. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
If you’re looking to spice things up, you can easily customize this casserole with additional seasonings or toppings. Serve it with crusty bread, a side salad, or simply enjoy it on its own—either way, you’re in for a delicious treat!
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4-6
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cups cabbage, shredded
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the shredded cabbage, drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the cabbage softens slightly.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Cheese Lover’s Version: Use a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan for a richer cheese flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap the tomato sauce for a low-carb alternative and use lean ground beef or turkey.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for more texture and nutrients.
Tips
- Make sure to drain excess fat from the beef to prevent the casserole from becoming too greasy.
- Use fresh cabbage for the best texture, but pre-shredded cabbage can work for convenience.
- For a crispy cheese topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- This dish reheats well, making it a great meal-prep option for the week.
This Cheesy Cabbage & Beef Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and packed with flavor. Give it a try, and it just might become your new go-to meal!