Savory Cabbage Beef Bake

There’s something so comforting about a warm, savory casserole on a busy weeknight. This Savory Cabbage Beef Bake delivers all the cozy flavors of home-cooked goodness in one simple dish. With tender cabbage, juicy ground beef, and tangy tomatoes, this meal is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a hungry family without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced home chef looking for a fuss-free dinner, this cabbage beef bake is a winner. It’s ready in under an hour, requires only one pan for prep, and fills your kitchen with inviting aromas that make everyone gather at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients without compromising on flavor.
• Easy Weeknight Dinner: Minimal prep and one-pan cooking make it perfect for busy nights.
• Hearty & Filling: Tender cabbage and beef with rice ensure everyone leaves the table satisfied.
• Family-Friendly: Mild, comforting flavors that kids and adults both enjoy.
• Customizable: Add spices, peppers, or cheese to suit your family’s taste.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe serves 6 portions. All ingredients are organized for easy prep.

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 small cabbage, shredded

Sauce & Flavoring:

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Optional Addition:

• 1 cup cooked rice (for extra heartiness and texture)

Tools & Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large skillet
• Oven
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and ensures easy clean-up.

2. Brown the Beef and Onion

In a skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb ground beef with the chopped onion until browned, about 7 minutes. Stir occasionally to break the beef into small crumbles. Drain excess fat for a leaner, less greasy dish.

3. Add the Vegetables and Seasonings

Add the shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes with juice, and cooked rice to the skillet. Sprinkle in 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.

4. Simmer to Blend Flavors

Allow the mixture to simmer on medium-low heat for 5 minutes. This gives the flavors time to meld and softens the cabbage slightly before baking.

5. Transfer to Baking Dish

Spread the beef and cabbage mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Cover with foil to retain moisture during baking.

6. Bake the Casserole

Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the dish is heated through.

7. Rest and Serve

Remove the foil and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to settle and makes slicing easier. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Fine Shredding: Shred cabbage finely to ensure it cooks quickly and evenly.
• Spicy Twist: Add 1/2 tsp chili powder to the mixture for a subtle heat.
• Extra Veggies: Carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini can be added for more nutrition.
• Cheesy Cabbage Bake: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a melty topping.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free when using plain rice and no wheat-based sauces.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

The flavor of this cabbage beef bake is warm, savory, and slightly tangy from the tomatoes. The ground beef provides rich umami notes, while the cabbage adds subtle sweetness and texture. The rice makes the dish more filling, creating a hearty, comforting meal.

Suggested Side Dishes

• A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette
• Roasted root vegetables for extra depth
• Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash for an indulgent, low-carb pairing

Nutritional Overview (Estimated per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 22 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Fiber: 5 g

Dietary Considerations: Gluten-free, high-fiber, suitable for budget-conscious meal planning

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Pre-Cook Ingredients: Brown the beef and sauté the onion in advance. Store in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Microwave individual portions or reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
Yes, but finely shredded fresh cabbage cooks faster and maintains better texture.

Q2: Can this recipe be doubled?
Absolutely! Use a larger baking dish and adjust cooking time slightly.

Q3: Can I substitute beef with ground turkey or chicken?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner version, though it may be slightly less rich in flavor.

Q4: Can I make it spicier?
Add chili powder, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños to the mixture before baking.

Q5: Can this be frozen?
Yes, assemble the dish but don’t bake. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep ingredients	10 min
Brown beef & onion	7 min
Simmer mixture	5 min
Bake	30–35 min
Rest	5 min

Serving Suggestions

• Serve directly from the baking dish for a rustic feel.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for color and freshness.
• Pair with crusty bread for those who aren’t carb-conscious.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Cabbage Beef Bake: Add 1/2 tsp chili powder or diced jalapeños.
2. Cheesy Cabbage Beef Bake: Top with 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella during the last 10 minutes of baking.
3. Vegetable-Packed Version: Add diced carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms to increase nutritional content.
4. Keto-Friendly: Omit rice and increase cabbage to maintain a low-carb meal.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cabbage:

• Choose firm, fresh heads of cabbage with tightly packed leaves.
• Shred finely for faster cooking and even flavor absorption.
• Store in the fridge for up to a week in a sealed container.

Ground Beef (80/20 preferred):

• Provides optimal flavor and moisture for casseroles.
• Can substitute leaner ground meat for a lighter option.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Use a large skillet to prevent overcrowding, which ensures beef browns evenly.
• Let the casserole rest after baking to help flavors meld and make serving easier.
• Simmer briefly before baking to blend flavors and slightly tenderize the cabbage.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Assemble the dish without baking. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
• Reheating: Oven is preferred for even heating; microwave works for smaller portions.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	22 g
Carbohydrates	20 g
Fat	15 g
Fiber	5 g

Dietary Notes: Gluten-free, high-fiber, nut-free, budget-friendly

Expanded Conclusion

This Savory Cabbage Beef Bake is an ideal weeknight meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to prepare. With minimal ingredients and just one pan, it’s perfect for beginners and busy home cooks alike. The combination of tender cabbage, juicy beef, and flavorful seasonings creates a comforting casserole that’s satisfying for both family dinners and meal prep.

Whether you stick with the classic version or experiment with spice, cheese, or extra vegetables, this dish is a versatile, budget-friendly staple for any kitchen. Try it tonight and discover how a simple cabbage bake can bring warmth and flavor to your table.

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