Cabbage Beef Bake

This hearty and comforting Cabbage Beef Bake is a casserole dish that brings together savory beef, tender cabbage, and a rich tomato-based sauce topped with melted cheese. It’s the perfect meal for when you want something warm, filling, and easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a winner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The combination of tender cabbage, seasoned beef, and melted cheese makes this dish irresistibly satisfying. It’s an affordable, one-pan meal that’s perfect for weeknights.

Reasons to Love This Recipe:

• Hearty and Filling: A full meal in one dish.
• Affordable Ingredients: Cabbage and ground beef are budget-friendly staples.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy it.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it ahead and bake it when ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole:

• Ground Beef (1 lb): Provides the savory base.
• Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): For aromatic goodness.
• Cabbage (1 small head, chopped or shredded): Tender and full of texture.
• Carrot (1 large, grated or finely diced): Adds a touch of sweetness.
• Tomato Sauce (1 cup): Forms the base of the rich sauce.
• Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz): Adds texture and extra tomato flavor.
• Beef Broth (½ cup): Helps create a flavorful sauce.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp): Adds depth and umami.
• Salt (1 tsp): To season the dish.
• Black Pepper (½ tsp): For a hint of heat.
• Paprika (1 tsp): Adds warmth and a smoky touch.

For the Topping:

• Shredded Cheddar or Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup): Melts into gooey goodness.
• Parsley (for garnish, optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Mixing spoon
• Baking dish (9×13-inch)
• Aluminum foil

Let’s Make Cabbage Beef Bake

1. Preheat the Oven
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Beef and Aromatics
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.
   • Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Add the Vegetables and Sauce
   • Stir in the chopped cabbage and grated carrot, cooking for 5 minutes until the cabbage begins to soften.
   • Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir well and simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors combine.
4. Assemble the Casserole
   • Transfer the beef and cabbage mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly.
5. Add the Cheese
   • Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake
   • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve
   • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

What to Serve with Cabbage Beef Bake

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• Mashed Potatoes: A hearty side dish.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans make a great addition.

Tips for the Best Cabbage Beef Bake

• Use Fresh Cabbage: It softens beautifully and absorbs the flavors.
• Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to help the layers set.
• Customize the Cheese: Try using Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a twist on the flavor.

Storing and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Wrap the casserole tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
  Yes! Ground turkey works well and lightens the dish slightly.
• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Absolutely. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it overnight. Bake when ready.
• Can I add other vegetables?
  Definitely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms would be delicious additions.

Conclusion
This Cabbage Beef Bake is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making it for meal prep, it’s a dish you’ll keep coming back to!

Don’t forget to leave a review and share your photos. Enjoy!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Cuisine: American/Comfort Food

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 | Protein: 22g | Carbohydrates: 18g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 4g | Sodium: 480mg

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