This Cabbage Beef Bake is a warm and hearty dish that combines simple, budget-friendly ingredients into one satisfying meal. Layers of seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, and fluffy rice come together with rich tomato sauce and a gooey layer of melted cheddar cheese. Every bite is packed with savory flavors, making it the perfect dish for family dinners or meal prepping ahead of a busy week. What makes this dish even better is its versatility! You can swap out ground beef for turkey, add more veggies for extra nutrition, or experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist. Whether you’re serving it straight from the oven on a chilly evening or enjoying leftovers the next day, this casserole is comfort food at its finest. Pair it with a crisp salad or crusty bread, and you have a meal that’s as delicious as it is satisfying.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb 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
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup beef broth
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and chopped onion for 5-7 minutes, until the beef is fully browned and the onions are translucent. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in garlic powder, salt, and black pepper into the beef mixture.
- Layer half of the chopped cabbage in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the beef mixture over the cabbage, followed by a layer of cooked rice.
- Pour the undrained diced tomatoes over the rice.
- Add the remaining cabbage on top and pour the beef broth evenly over the dish.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 55 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 4-6 servings
The History and Popularity of Cabbage Beef Bake
The origins of cabbage and beef dishes can be traced back to European and American cuisine, where hearty casseroles and stews were commonly prepared to feed large families. Cabbage rolls, a staple in Eastern European and Mediterranean cuisine, are one of the closest relatives to this dish. However, instead of rolling cabbage leaves around a beef and rice filling, this recipe simplifies the process by layering everything in a baking dish.
In many cultures, cabbage has long been a staple ingredient due to its affordability, long shelf life, and nutritional value. It pairs wonderfully with beef, which adds protein and a savory depth of flavor. Over time, this dish has been adapted to fit modern cooking styles, making it even more accessible to home cooks.
The simplicity and heartiness of Cabbage Beef Bake have made it a favorite in American households. It embodies the essence of comfort food warm, satisfying, and easy to make. It’s the kind of meal that fills your home with an irresistible aroma, bringing everyone to the table eager for a bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons why this dish deserves a spot in your recipe rotation. Here are just a few:
1. Easy and Convenient
Cabbage Beef Bake requires minimal preparation and basic kitchen skills, making it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights. The ingredients are readily available, and most of the cooking time is spent in the oven, allowing you to attend to other tasks while dinner bakes.
2. Budget-Friendly
This dish is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a filling and nutritious meal without breaking the bank. Cabbage is one of the most inexpensive vegetables available, and ground beef is a cost-effective protein source. With a handful of pantry staples, you can create a meal that feeds a crowd.
3. Nutritious and Balanced
Despite being a comfort food, this dish is packed with nutrients. Cabbage is high in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. The beef provides protein and essential minerals, while the tomatoes add lycopene, a powerful antioxidant known for its health benefits. By using lean ground beef or substituting it with ground turkey, you can make this dish even healthier.
4. Versatile and Customizable
One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. You can tweak it to suit your dietary preferences or simply use what you have on hand. Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken, add bell peppers or carrots for extra veggies, or use different cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack to change up the flavor profile. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep
Cabbage Beef Bake stores well, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping. It can be refrigerated for several days or frozen for future meals. Whether you’re planning lunches for the week or want a ready-made dinner option, this casserole is a great choice.
Serving Suggestions
Cabbage Beef Bake is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a few simple sides can elevate the dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious tomato sauce.
- Fresh Salad: A light, tangy salad with a vinaigrette dressing balances the richness of the bake.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted carrots, zucchini, or asparagus for added nutrients.
- Mashed Potatoes: For an extra comforting meal, pair it with creamy mashed potatoes.
Storage and Reheating Tips
One of the best things about this dish is that it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals until warm.
Variations to Try
If you love experimenting in the kitchen, try these variations of the classic recipe:
- Low-Carb Version: Replace rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Cheese Lover’s Delight: Mix in different types of cheese for a richer, creamier texture.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the beef for lentils or mushrooms to create a meat-free version.
Conclusion:
Cabbage Beef Bake is the perfect combination of simplicity, flavor, and comfort. This dish has stood the test of time, proving that you don’t need fancy ingredients to create something truly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or simply looking for a satisfying dinner option, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.