This Cabbage Beef Bake is a comforting, hearty casserole that brings together tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a medley of flavorful ingredients into one satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this dish is both easy to prepare and wonderfully filling.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cabbage beef bake is a classic home-cooked dish that’s beloved for its simplicity and rich flavor. The combination of beef, cabbage, rice, and tomatoes creates a wholesome, savory meal, while a layer of melted cheddar cheese on top adds indulgent comfort. It’s also versatile—you can adjust ingredients to suit your family’s tastes or dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cups cabbage, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup beef broth
Optional Substitutions & Variations:
- Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner version.
- Add bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
- Swap rice for cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
- Adjust spices, like adding paprika or cayenne, for a flavor kick.
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the baking dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish for easy cleanup. - Cook the beef and onion:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Stir in garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to season. - Layer the ingredients:
- Spread half of the chopped cabbage on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add the cooked beef mixture over the cabbage.
- Sprinkle the cooked rice evenly on top.
- Pour the undrained diced tomatoes over the rice.
- Top with the remaining cabbage and drizzle with beef broth.
- Bake covered:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. This allows the cabbage to soften and the flavors to meld. - Add cheese and finish baking:
Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Serve and enjoy:
Let the bake rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set, making it easier to portion. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Tips
- Browning the beef properly adds depth and rich flavor.
- Evenly chopping the cabbage ensures it cooks uniformly.
- Layering ingredients allows flavors to meld while maintaining a satisfying texture.
- Optional: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture for a savory, umami boost.
- For faster cooking, par-cook the cabbage by briefly sautéing it before layering.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.
- Serve with a glass of red wine or a sparkling water with lemon.
- Present in the baking dish for a rustic, homestyle feel.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and foil; freeze up to 2–3 months.
- Reheat: Microwave covered on medium power or reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Nutritional Highlights
- Protein: Ground beef provides a hearty protein source.
- Carbs: Rice and tomatoes supply energy and texture.
- Fats: Cheese and beef add richness and flavor.
- Vitamins & Minerals: Cabbage offers fiber and nutrients like vitamin C and K; beef provides iron and B vitamins.
This Cabbage Beef Bake is a classic comfort food casserole that’s easy to make, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners. Its combination of tender cabbage, savory beef, and cheesy goodness makes it a timeless favorite.