If you have been on the lookout for a hearty, comforting dish that blends wholesome ingredients with mouthwatering flavors, the Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. This bake combines tender, savory ground beef with the slightly sweet crunch of cabbage and the rich zest of tomatoes, all baked to perfection. With simple pantry staples coming together in such a satisfying way, this recipe delivers a warm, family-friendly meal that feels like a big, cozy hug on a plate. Whether you are preparing a weeknight supper or a dish to impress guests, this Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe will quickly become a trusted favorite in your rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a critical role in building layers of flavor and texture. Every item is easy to find, yet essential to ensure your dish is as delicious and vibrant as it promises to be.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a hearty, savory base with rich protein to satisfy your appetite.
- 1 small head of cabbage, shredded: Adds a wonderful crunch and subtle sweetness that balances the beef perfectly.
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce: Brings moisture and a deep, tomatoey flavor that ties everything together.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes: Offers bursts of juicy texture and brightness to keep the bake from feeling heavy.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Infuses the dish with a gentle savory aroma and slightly sweet undertone when cooked.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Boosts the flavor with its signature punchy warmth and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Lends an aromatic Mediterranean touch that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds herbal brightness that lifts the overall flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors, ensuring a balanced taste.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Introduces just enough subtle heat and depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional): Finishes the bake with creamy, melted goodness and an inviting golden crust.
How to Make Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Brown the Beef
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it reaches the perfect temperature while you prep. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef thoroughly, breaking it apart into small pieces as it cooks. This step is crucial because it develops a rich, savory foundation for the dish. Remember to drain any excess fat once the beef is cooked to keep the bake flavorful but not greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Next, toss the chopped onions and minced garlic into the skillet with the browned beef. Cook them together for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions are softened and translucent. This quick sauté infuses the beef with aromatic depth and prepares the perfect base for the cabbage to absorb the wonderful flavors developing here.
Step 3: Add Cabbage and Tomatoes
Now comes the heart of the recipe — stir in your shredded cabbage alongside the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in your dried oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the cabbage begins to soften but still holds a bit of its delightful crunch. This blending stage ensures all ingredients meld harmoniously before baking.
Step 4: Assemble the Bake
Transfer the beef and cabbage mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. If you love a cheesy topping, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the entire surface now for a luscious finishing touch before baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 30 minutes, allowing all the flavors to marry wonderfully while the cabbage softens further. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an extra 10 minutes to get that bubbly, golden top that signals the bake is ready to enjoy.
Step 6: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, give your Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe a few minutes to cool and set. This rest time makes serving easier and helps the casserole hold its shape on the plate.
How to Serve Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can elevate your Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe beautifully. Freshly chopped parsley or sliced green onions add a bright contrast in color and a burst of fresh herbal taste that pairs wonderfully with the rich beef and tender cabbage.
Side Dishes
This bake is satisfying on its own but shines when paired with complementary flavors. Opt for a light green salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette to balance the richness, or enjoy it alongside roasted potatoes or crusty bread for a filling and enjoyable meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this casserole over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or cooked rice to soak up all the luscious juices. Alternately, scoop it into hollowed-out bell peppers for a colorful, playful presentation that’s sure to impress at any dinner table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights or quick lunches.
Freezing
If you want to save this dish for longer, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled bake in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, and it will stay fresh for up to 2 months. Be sure to label it for easy identification later.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the bake in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Warm it gently in the oven at 350°F until heated through, which preserves the texture better than microwaving. If you’re in a rush, the microwave will do—just heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally for even warming.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat in the Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly because these meats have different fat contents and textures.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap out the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or additional vegetables like mushrooms and lentils. This will still provide a hearty texture while keeping the flavor vibrant.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and bake it later?
You can assemble the Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe up to a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake. This is perfect for saving time on busy days or prepping for guests.
How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the seasoning?
This recipe is mild and comforting, designed to appeal to a wide range of palates. You can easily increase the black pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
What should I look for when choosing a cabbage for this recipe?
Choose a firm, fresh cabbage head without blemishes or wilting leaves. Green cabbage works great here, but you could experiment with savoy cabbage for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
From its humble ingredients to the satisfying layers of flavor, this Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe is the kind of meal that feels like a warm embrace. It’s simple enough for everyday cooking but special enough to share with loved ones, making it a timeless addition to your recipe collection. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the wonderful comfort this dish has to offer!
Print
Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Cabbage Beef Bake combines ground beef, shredded cabbage, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s an easy, comforting casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner, delivering a balanced mix of protein and vegetables baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces until it is browned. Drain excess fat to reduce grease.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onions soften and become fragrant.
- Add Cabbage and Sauce Ingredients: Stir in shredded cabbage, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes until the cabbage starts to soften, blending all flavors well.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Move the beef and cabbage mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Optionally, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole for a cheesy crust.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and ingredients to cook through.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set and to prevent burns.
Notes
- You can substitute mozzarella with cheddar cheese or omit the cheese entirely for a dairy-free version.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic and onion.
- To reduce sodium, use low-sodium tomato sauce and diced tomatoes.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
