Introduction
Looking for a hearty, simple, and comforting meal that the whole family will love? Say hello to Cabbage Beef Bake! This dish is a cozy combination of ground beef, tender cabbage, and savory seasonings baked together in one delicious casserole.
The best part? It’s budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and you only need basic ingredients. Even picky eaters often enjoy this dish, especially when it’s topped with cheese or served with a slice of bread on the side. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for a few days, Cabbage Beef Bake is a great go-to recipe.
Ingredients – Cabbage Beef Bake
Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic Cabbage Beef Bake:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium head of cabbage (chopped)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional for extra texture)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or mixed herbs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
You can also adjust the ingredients based on your taste. For example, add chili flakes for a little heat or use turkey instead of beef for a leaner option.
Step-by-Step Process – Cabbage Beef Bake
Let’s walk through how to make this delicious and easy meal.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage
Chop the cabbage into medium-sized pieces. You can use green or savoy cabbage—both work well. Steam or boil the chopped cabbage for about 5–7 minutes until it softens slightly. Then drain and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Now, add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook until it turns brown and is fully cooked through. This should take about 8–10 minutes. Drain any extra fat.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste (if using), salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors. If you’re adding cooked rice, mix it in now.
Step 5: Combine Beef and Cabbage
In a large mixing bowl (or directly in your baking dish), combine the cooked cabbage with the beef and tomato mixture. Mix everything until well combined.
Step 6: Layer in a Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
Step 7: Bake
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can top it with fresh parsley or serve it with sour cream if you like.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320–350 kcal |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Sodium | 480mg |
| Vitamin C | 60% DV |
| Calcium | 15% DV |
| Iron | 18% DV |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 5–10 extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going in cold.
Q2: Can I freeze Cabbage Beef Bake?
Absolutely. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until hot.
Q3: Can I use other meats?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can be used as substitutes for ground beef.
Q4: Do I have to use cheese on top?
No, cheese is optional. If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can skip it or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
Q5: What side dishes go well with Cabbage Beef Bake?
Some tasty sides include garlic bread, mashed potatoes, or a light garden salad. You can also serve it with pickles for a tangy contrast.
Final Thoughts
Cabbage Beef Bake is one of those meals that’s simple yet incredibly satisfying. It brings together classic ingredients like beef, cabbage, and tomato in a way that feels both healthy and comforting. Whether you’re making it for your family, freezing it for future dinners, or just craving something warm and homemade, this dish delivers every time.
It’s also very customizable. Add your favorite veggies, adjust the spice level, or throw in rice or noodles for a heartier bite. Best of all, it’s an affordable recipe that doesn’t take too much time in the kitchen. So the next time you’re wondering what to cook, try this wholesome bake—you might just make it a weekly favorite!
