Savory Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

Comfort arrives in this hearty ground beef casserole that blends rustic flavors with simple ingredients.

Hearty meals like these connect us to cherished memories and warm kitchens.

Cabbage transforms into a silky backdrop for rich, seasoned meat.

Creamy textures mingle with robust protein, creating a satisfying dish you’ll adore.

Layers of savory goodness promise a filling meal that feels like a culinary hug.

Homemade goodness calls with this unpretentious yet delectable combination of classic ingredients.

Let’s uncover how a few smart techniques can turn this casserole into your new favorite weeknight dinner.

Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole Classics

• Savor Hearty Comfort: A soul-warming dish packed with rich ground beef and tender cabbage that delivers maximum satisfaction in every bite.
• Master Quick Cooking: Requires minimal prep work and basic cooking skills, making it perfect for home cooks of all experience levels who want a delicious meal without complex techniques.
• Enjoy Family-Friendly Dining: Combines protein, vegetables, and cheese in one pan, creating a balanced meal that pleases both kids and adults with its familiar, comforting flavors.
• Celebrate Budget-Friendly Cooking: Uses affordable ingredients like ground beef and cabbage, transforming simple components into a delectable casserole that doesn't strain your wallet.

Ingredients for Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

• Ground Beef: A hearty meat that provides rich flavor and substantial protein for the casserole.

• Cabbage, Onion, Garlic: Fresh vegetables that create a savory base with depth of flavor and nutritional value.

• Heavy Cream: Creates a creamy texture and adds richness to the dish.
• Cheddar Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Provide a tangy and sharp cheese topping that melts beautifully.
• Paprika, Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the overall taste profile of the casserole.

• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing vegetables and preventing sticking.

How to Make Creamed Cabbage Beef Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for the delicious magic about to happen.

Step 2: Sizzle Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Diced onions
• Minced garlic

Sauté until onions turn translucent and release their incredible aroma.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it into small pieces.

Cook until the meat develops a rich, golden-brown color. Drain any extra fat to keep the dish light and tasty.

Step 4: Soften the Cabbage

Introduce chopped cabbage to the skillet. Let it cook and become tender, stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Create Creamy Goodness

• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Allow the mixture to simmer and blend flavors for 5 minutes, creating a luxurious sauce.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the entire mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the casserole into the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese turns bubbly and develops a gorgeous golden-brown crust.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes. This helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier.

Enjoy your comforting meal!

Tips for Creamed Cabbage and Beef Casserole

• Opt for 90/10 or 93/7 ground beef to reduce excess fat and keep the casserole lighter without sacrificing flavor.
• Cut cabbage into uniform pieces to ensure consistent cooking and prevent some pieces from becoming too soft or remaining undercooked.
• Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of dried thyme to boost the savory notes and create a more complex taste profile.
• Replace regular cheese with full-fat, low-carb cheese options and use heavy cream as a natural thickener for those following ketogenic diets.
• Drain excess liquid from cabbage after initial cooking to prevent a watery casserole and ensure a rich, creamy texture.

Variations of Creamed Cabbage and Beef Casserole

• Spicy Southwest Casserole: Replace paprika with chili powder, add diced green chilies, and top with pepper jack cheese for a zesty kick.
• Mediterranean Herb Fusion: Incorporate fresh oregano and basil, swap cheddar for feta cheese, and add diced bell peppers for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute cabbage with riced cauliflower, use heavy cream alternative like coconut cream, and add extra herbs for depth.
• Vegetarian Protein Power: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils, keep the creamy sauce, and use vegetable broth for additional flavor.

Best Pairings with Creamed Cabbage Beef Casserole

• Pair with Robust Red Wine: Select a bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec that complements the rich, hearty flavors of the beef and creamy sauce, cutting through the dish's richness with its tannic structure.
• Complement with Crusty Bread: Serve warm, rustic sourdough or French bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce and provide a delightful textural contrast to the soft casserole.
• Fresh Salad Sidekick: Create a crisp green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette to balance the casserole's heaviness and add a refreshing element to the meal.
• Beer Pairing Perfection: Choose a malty amber ale or a smooth lager that can stand up to the robust beef flavor while cleansing the palate between each savory bite.

Storage Advice for Creamed Cabbage Beef Casserole

• Transfer cooled casserole to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover tightly with a lid or plastic wrap to prevent moisture loss and absorption of other food odors.
• Pack the casserole in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Remove excess air, seal completely, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.

FAQs

• Is this recipe budget-friendly?

Yes, it uses affordable ingredients like ground beef, cabbage, and basic pantry seasonings, making it an economical meal that feeds multiple people without breaking the bank.

• Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work perfectly in this casserole, offering flexibility for different dietary preferences.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Opt for lean ground beef, use low-fat cheese, replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or milk, and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to boost nutritional value.

• Is this casserole good for meal prep?

Definitely! This recipe stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheats easily, making it an excellent option for preparing meals in advance for busy weekdays.

Creamed Cabbage And Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Comforting German-inspired Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole blends hearty flavors with creamy textures. Warm family meals find new life in this rustic dish that brings rich, satisfying goodness you’ll savor with each delicious bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat:

• 1 pound ground beef

Vegetables:

• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy and Seasonings:

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
• 1 cup (100 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup (25 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating to 350F (175C), ensuring an even warmth for optimal cooking.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium temperature, then sauté diced onions and minced garlic until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
3. Introduce ground beef to the skillet, browning thoroughly and eliminating any excess fat to maintain a clean, rich flavor profile.
4. Incorporate chopped cabbage into the meat mixture, allowing it to soften and meld with the other ingredients for 5-7 minutes.
5. Enrich the mixture by pouring in heavy cream and seasoning with paprika, salt, and black pepper, then simmer for an additional 5 minutes to develop depth of flavor.
6. Carefully transfer the cabbage and beef mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, creating an even layer for consistent cooking.
7. Generously top the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese, followed by a sprinkle of grated Parmesan to create a golden, crispy cheese crust.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, watching for the cheese to become bubbly and achieve a rich, golden-brown color.
9. Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven, which helps the dish set and makes serving easier.

Notes

• Customize heat levels by adjusting black pepper and adding red pepper flakes for extra kick.
• Low-carb dieters can replace cabbage with cauliflower for similar texture and reduced carbohydrate content.
• Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for healthier protein options.
• Use lactose-free cheese or nutritional yeast to make the dish dairy-free and suitable for sensitive individuals.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 621 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 750 mg
• Fat: 52 g
• Saturated Fat: 22 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 25 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Cholesterol: 130 mg