There’s something about the combination of cabbage and ground beef that feels like a warm hug from your grandma. The way the savory beef mingles with the tender cabbage creates a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate. Picture this: a bubbling casserole, its golden crust beckoning you closer, releasing aromas that make your stomach growl louder than your neighbor’s dog on trash day.
Growing up, my family had our fair share of cabbage and ground beef recipes, particularly during chilly evenings when all we wanted was comfort food. My favorite was the hearty casserole my mom would whip up—perfect for cozy family dinners or unexpected gatherings. The anticipation as it baked in the oven was almost unbearable; who knew something so simple could bring so much joy?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The blend of flavors is rich and satisfying, offering a comforting experience with every bite
- Visually appealing layers of beef and cabbage create a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds
- It’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish or even leftovers for lunch the next day
I remember one time I made this dish for my friends, and they devoured it in record time. Their laughter filled the kitchen as they went back for seconds, proving that good food brings people together.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease; it keeps everything nice and healthy while enhancing flavor.
Cabbage: Fresh green cabbage works best; look for firm heads without any blemishes.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; chop it finely to distribute its flavor evenly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives an aromatic kick; use 2-3 cloves minced for maximum impact.
Tomato Sauce: Choose a good-quality tomato sauce; it ties all flavors together beautifully.
Cheese: Shredded cheddar melts beautifully over the top; use sharp cheddar for a robust flavor.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and Italian herbs enhance taste; don’t skimp on seasoning!
Olive Oil: For sautéing the vegetables; it adds richness to the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your ingredients—this way, you can dive right into cooking without delay.
Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.
Add Ground Beef: Increase heat to medium-high and add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula for even cooking—about 5-7 minutes should do.
Mix in Cabbage and Tomato Sauce: Stir in shredded cabbage along with tomato sauce. Cook until cabbage wilts down slightly but remains crisp—around 5 minutes will suffice.
Season Generously!: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and Italian herbs into the mixture. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings according to your preference—it’s all about those personal touches!
Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Top generously with shredded cheese—feel free to be cheesy here!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place in preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Enjoy those delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen!
Now that you’ve mastered this easy-to-follow recipe featuring cabbage and ground beef recipes, get ready to serve up some smiles at your dinner table! Your friends and family won’t just leave satisfied; they’ll be begging you for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
You Must Know
- Cabbage and ground beef recipes are a delightful fusion of flavors, making them perfect for hearty meals
- This combination is not only filling but also budget-friendly, allowing for creative variations that keep dinner exciting
- The aroma of sautéing cabbage with savory beef will have everyone gathering around the table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a hot skillet, then add chopped cabbage to cook down while seasoning. This sequence ensures the flavors meld beautifully and each ingredient shines.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping out ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter dish. You can also add spices like paprika or chili flakes to kick up the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain moisture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked cabbage, slice it thinly to allow even cooking and tenderness
- Avoid overcooking; it should be soft but still slightly crunchy
- A splash of vinegar brightens the dish without overpowering its natural flavors
Cooking this dish reminds me of family gatherings where my grandma’s kitchen was alive with laughter and delicious smells. Everyone always fought over seconds, especially when she added a sprinkle of her secret spice blend!
FAQ
What are some variations of cabbage and ground beef recipes?
You can try adding cheese or incorporate different vegetables like carrots and bell peppers.
Can I use frozen cabbage for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cabbage works well; just thaw and drain excess water before cooking.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute ground beef with lentils or crumbled tofu for a tasty vegetarian option.
Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole
This comforting cabbage and ground beef casserole is a nostalgic favorite, perfect for chilly evenings when you crave warmth and satisfaction. Layers of tender cabbage, hearty ground beef, and gooey cheese create a delightful dish that not only pleases the palate but also brings family and friends together. Easy to prepare on busy weeknights, this recipe promises to be a hit at any dinner table!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 4 cups chopped fresh green cabbage
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup good-quality tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 tsp Italian herbs (oregano, basil)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant.
- Increase heat to medium-high, add ground beef, and cook until browned (about 5–7 minutes).
- Stir in chopped cabbage and tomato sauce; cook for an additional 5 minutes until the cabbage has slightly wilted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
