Cabbage Beef Bake: A Hearty and Comforting Family Favorite

Easy Cabbage Beef Casserole for a Wholesome Dinner

Cabbage Beef Bake is the perfect one-dish meal. It’s warm, filling, and full of flavor—everything you want in a weeknight dinner. Tender cabbage layers combine with seasoned ground beef, tomato sauce, and melty cheese to create a satisfying, budget-friendly casserole everyone will love.

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Ingredients for Cabbage Beef Bake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting casserole:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup cooked rice (optional for extra heartiness)
• 1–1½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

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How to Make Cabbage Beef Bake

Step 1: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. If using, add cooked rice. Simmer for 5–10 minutes to allow flavors to blend.

Step 3: Prep the Cabbage

While the beef mixture simmers, steam or sauté chopped cabbage in a separate skillet until slightly softened (about 5–7 minutes). You can also microwave it with a splash of water.

Step 4: Layer and Assemble

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half the cabbage, then half the beef mixture. Repeat layers. Top evenly with shredded cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prep and budget-friendly
• A complete meal in one dish
• Great way to use leftover cabbage or rice
• Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
• Comforting, cheesy, and flavorful

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Tips and Variations

• Add cooked sausage for extra flavor
• Use ground turkey for a leaner version
• Top with breadcrumbs for a crunchy crust
• Add a layer of mashed potatoes for a twist on shepherd’s pie
• Mix in shredded carrots or bell peppers for added veggies

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Storage and Reheating

• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot
• Freeze baked or unbaked casserole for up to 2 months—thaw before baking

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Final Thoughts

Cabbage Beef Bake is a satisfying, no-fuss dinner that delivers big flavor without a lot of effort. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this cozy casserole is a delicious way to enjoy humble ingredients in the best possible way.

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