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Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole
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The Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish combining tender cabbage, seasoned lean ground beef, and melty cheese baked to golden perfection. Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients, it serves as a wholesome family meal or a delicious leftover option, adaptable to various flavor preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (85% lean or higher)
  • 1 medium green cabbage, finely chopped (about 6 cups)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Cheese

  • 1 can (14 oz) canned tomatoes or tomato sauce
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

Seasonings and Oils

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon dried herbs (thyme or rosemary)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Finely chop the cabbage, dice the onion, and mince the garlic to ensure flavors meld nicely and textures blend well in the casserole.
  2. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned with no visible pink. Drain excess fat for a cleaner taste.
  3. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent to develop rich, mellow flavors.
  4. Add the Cabbage and Tomatoes: Stir in chopped cabbage and canned tomatoes or tomato sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes until the cabbage softens and flavors combine.
  5. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the beef and cabbage mixture to a greased baking dish. Evenly spread the shredded cheese on top.
  6. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake casserole for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from oven and allow casserole to cool slightly before serving to let flavors settle and help the dish hold together well.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook cabbage – keep it slightly crisp to avoid a mushy texture.
  • Use lean ground beef (85% lean or higher) to reduce excess grease.
  • Season gradually and taste the mixture before baking for balanced flavor.
  • Combine two types of cheese for richer flavor and meltability.
  • Let casserole rest before serving for easier slicing and better presentation.

Nutrition

Keywords: cabbage casserole, ground beef casserole, easy family dinner, comfort food, baked casserole, gluten free casserole

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/cabbage-and-ground-beef-casserole/