Cabbage Beef Bake

A Hearty and Satisfying Comfort Dish

Cabbage Beef Bake is a wholesome, flavorful casserole that combines tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato-based sauce, all baked to perfection. This dish is reminiscent of stuffed cabbage rolls but without the extra work, making it a great option for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No need for rolling or stuffing—simply layer and bake.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
• Nutritious & Filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
• Great for Leftovers: The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup cooked rice (optional)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Beef Mixture

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes.

3. Prepare the Cabbage

In a separate large pot, bring water to a boil. Add chopped cabbage and cook for 5 minutes to soften slightly. Drain and set aside.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Spread half of the cabbage in the baking dish. Layer with half of the beef mixture. If using rice, sprinkle half over the beef. Repeat the layers.

5. Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. If using cheese, remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes or until melted and bubbly.

6. Serve

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

Variations

• Low-Carb Version: Skip the rice and add extra cabbage for a keto-friendly dish.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for some heat.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Mix shredded cheese into the beef mixture for extra richness.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the cabbage from being too watery?

Pre-boiling and draining the cabbage before baking helps remove excess moisture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I serve with Cabbage Beef Bake?

This dish pairs well with a side of crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free tomato sauce and check other ingredient labels.

Can I add other vegetables?

Sure! Try adding bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Should I drain the diced tomatoes?

No, the liquid helps create a flavorful sauce for the casserole.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, just skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

What’s the best way to chop the cabbage?

Remove the core, then slice into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

How do I make it more like stuffed cabbage rolls?

Add a bit of brown sugar and vinegar to the sauce for a classic sweet-and-sour flavor.

Conclusion

Cabbage Beef Bake is a simple yet delicious dish that brings the comforting flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls to your table with minimal effort. Perfect for meal prep or feeding a family, this casserole is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Enjoy this warm, hearty meal and feel free to customize it to suit your taste!

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