Cheesy Beef and Cabbage Casserole

Cheesy Beef and Cabbage Casserole

Introduction:

This Cheesy Beef and Cabbage Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together hearty layers of ground beef, tender cabbage, and a generous topping of melted cheese.

Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering, this casserole combines classic flavors in a satisfying, low-carb dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Cabbage adds a tender texture and mild sweetness, balancing the savory beef and the creamy cheese topping.

Whether you’re a fan of casseroles or simply looking for a delicious, one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare, this recipe will become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Not only is this casserole delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients, including fiber from the cabbage and protein from the beef.

Casseroles like this one are ideal for busy weeknights, as they can be assembled ahead of time and baked right before serving.

With a few basic ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll have a comforting and wholesome meal ready to satisfy your taste buds.

Let’s dive into the ingredients and the simple steps to create this cheesy delight!

Ingredients:

1 large head of cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces

1 lb (450 g) ground beef

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce or diced tomatoes, based on preference

1/2 cup (120 ml) beef broth

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups shredded cheese (such as cheddar or a cheese blend)

1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for sautéing)

Red pepper flakes, for a hint of spice (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will allow it to reach the ideal temperature for baking the casserole evenly.

Prepare the Cabbage: Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Blanch it in boiling water for about 3-5 minutes until it softens slightly. Drain the cabbage well and set it aside. Blanching will reduce the baking time and ensure the cabbage becomes tender in the casserole.

Cook the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil (if desired) and sauté the diced onion until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Use a spatula to break the beef into smaller pieces, cooking until it is browned all over. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet if needed.

Season the Beef: Once the beef is browned, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in the tomato sauce and beef broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added at this stage.

Layer the Casserole: In a large baking dish (9×13 inches or similar), start by spreading half of the blanched cabbage evenly on the bottom. Pour half of the beef mixture over the cabbage layer, spreading it out evenly. Add a layer of shredded cheese, using about 1 cup of the cheese.

Repeat Layers: Layer the remaining cabbage on top, followed by the rest of the beef mixture. Finish with a final layer of shredded cheese, ensuring the top is generously covered for a cheesy crust when baked.

Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The edges should start to crisp up, indicating that the casserole is perfectly cooked. If you prefer a darker cheese crust, switch to the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This will make it easier to slice and serve without the layers falling apart. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color.

Tips for Perfect Casserole:

Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the day before. Simply cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready. This can be especially helpful for meal prepping or for holiday gatherings when oven space is limited.

Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend can add unique flavors and textures.

Low-Carb Option: Since cabbage is naturally low in carbs, this casserole is already keto-friendly. For an even lower-carb version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

Additional Vegetables: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini can be added to the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion:

This Cheesy Beef and Cabbage Casserole is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a rich, comforting meal.

With its layers of savory beef, tender cabbage, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Not only is it a budget-friendly option, but it also delivers on flavor and texture. Whether served with a fresh green salad or a side of crusty bread, this casserole makes a satisfying main course that’s ideal for any occasion.

Casseroles like this are wonderful because they bring family and friends together, creating memories over shared meals.

Try this recipe next time you’re craving something hearty and comforting, and enjoy the compliments that are sure to follow. Happy cooking!