Introduction
This Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole is the kind of homey, satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug. Layers of tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and fragrant onions are mixed with tomatoes and rice, then topped with a golden blanket of melted cheddar. It’s a budget-friendly, crowd-pleasing one-dish meal that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love It
- Comfort food classic: The combination of cabbage and beef is timeless and deeply satisfying.
- One-pan ease: You brown the beef, sauté the cabbage, mix everything together — then bake.
- Balanced nutrients: Cabbage adds a light vegetable component, while beef and rice give you protein and starch.
- Cheesy finish: A generous layer of cheddar melts to create a bubbling, golden top.
- Make-ahead friendly: Assemble in advance and bake when you’re ready, or reheat leftovers easily.
Ingredients (Makes ~6 servings)
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 pound (450 g) ground beef
- 1 can (about 410 g) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 175°C (350°F) and let it warm up while you prepare the casserole. - Cook the Beef, Onion & Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir and break apart the meat until it’s fully browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat if needed. - Add the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage to the pan and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften but still has a bit of crunch. - Stir in Tomatoes, Rice & Seasonings
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), cooked rice, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors blend nicely. - Transfer to Baking Dish & Add Broth
Spoon the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch (or similar) baking dish. Pour the beef broth evenly over the top so the casserole stays moist while baking. - Top with Cheese & Bake
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese all over the surface in a generous layer. Cover the dish with aluminum foil, then bake for about 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. - Rest Before Serving
After taking the casserole out of the oven, let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier and cleaner.
Tips & Tricks
- Shred your own cheddar rather than using pre-shredded — it melts better.
- If you want to reduce sodium, use low-sodium beef broth.
- For more flavor, let the cabbage sauté a little longer before adding the tomatoes.
- To make it richer, choose well-marbled ground beef, or mix in a little extra cheese.
- Letting the casserole rest before cutting helps the layers “set” and makes serving neater.
Variations & Options
- Lighter version: Use ground turkey instead of beef, and reduce the cheese slightly.
- Veggie boost: Add bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.
- Spicy twist: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne when simmering.
- Different cheese: Try Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for a smoother melt.
- Low-carb substitute: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice if you want to cut carbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. A bit of crusty bread or dinner rolls is also excellent for soaking up any juices. It’s great as a hearty main dish on its own.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven — add a splash of beef broth if it seems dry. You can also freeze portions for up to 2‑3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes — you can assemble it a day in advance and bake it when ready, or fully bake it, then reheat before serving.
Q: Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well, though beef provides the richest flavor.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes — just make sure your beef broth and any added seasonings are gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Q: How can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne, or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture before baking.
Q: Can I use a different cheese?
Yes — Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend can be used for a different flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole is the comforting, no-fuss kind of meal that brings warmth and satisfaction. With layers of cabbage, savory beef, rice, and a melty cheese topping, it’s hearty yet simple. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping meals ahead, this casserole delivers flavor, texture, and cozy goodness.