Description
This Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake is a hearty, comforting casserole combining ground beef, cabbage, and a flavorful blend of spices baked to perfection and topped with melted cheddar cheese. With its rich tomato base and tender vegetables, this dish delivers a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned, then drain the excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook until the onions become translucent, enhancing the flavor base.
- Mix in vegetables and seasonings: Stir in the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme into the skillet, combining everything thoroughly.
- Transfer to baking dish: Pour the beef and cabbage mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften.
- Add cheese and finish baking: Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and return the dish to the oven for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Cool and serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set and make it easier to serve.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños when mixing the seasonings.
- Try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added texture and nutrients.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- This dish pairs well with a side of cornbread or steamed rice.
