If you’re searching for a cozy, hearty dinner that combines wholesome veggies and savory goodness all in one dish, the Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite. This meal brings together tender ground beef, fresh cabbage, and a melty layer of cheddar cheese baked to perfection. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and packed with flavors that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for leftovers, this bake balances textures and tastes beautifully, proving that comfort food can also be nutritious and simple.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These straightforward ingredients each play a vital role in making this dish delicious, colorful, and packed with texture. From the rich, savory beef to the crunchy cabbage and luscious cheddar topping, every component is essential for achieving that perfect balance.

Ground beef (1 lb): Provides hearty, savory flavor and protein that forms the base of the bake.
Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds a sweet and aromatic note that deepens the overall taste.
Cabbage (3 cups, chopped): Brings freshness, subtle crunch, and a slight sweetness to balance the meat.
Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz, undrained): Keeps the dish juicy and adds a tangy edge that cuts through the richness.
Cooked rice (1 cup): Gives a soft, comforting texture and helps soak up all the delicious flavors.
Garlic powder (1 tsp): Boosts savoriness and adds depth without overpowering.
Salt (1 tsp): Enhances every ingredient’s natural flavors perfectly.
Black pepper (½ tsp): Adds a mild heat and complexity.
Beef broth (½ cup): Keeps the bake moist and infuses it with a gentle, savory richness.
Cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts into a golden, bubbly topping that takes this dish to the next level of yum.

How to Make Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. This simple prep ensures your bake won’t stick and will come out cleanly once cooked, making serving a breeze.

Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onions

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together until the beef is browned and the onion softens. This process creates a flavorful base with a wonderful savory aroma that fills your kitchen. Be sure to drain any excess fat for a leaner dish.

Step 3: Season the Beef Mixture

Sprinkle in garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, stirring well to coat the cooked beef and onions evenly. These seasonings bring out the natural flavors and infuse the mixture with warmth and subtle spice.

Step 4: Layer the Cabbage and Beef

Lay half of your chopped cabbage at the bottom of the baking dish. Then, spread the flavorful beef mixture evenly over the cabbage. This layering is the heart of the Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe—it balances textures and flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Add Rice and Tomatoes

Next, sprinkle cooked rice on top of the beef layer, followed by pouring in the entire can of diced tomatoes with juice. These ingredients add moisture, a comforting softness, and a bright tomato tang that brings the bake alive.

Step 6: Top with Remaining Cabbage and Broth

Finish layering with the rest of the cabbage and gently pour beef broth over everything. The broth keeps the cabbage moist and infuses a rich meaty depth throughout the baking process.

Step 7: Bake Covered, Then Add Cheese

Cover your dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Returning the dish to the oven uncovered, bake another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden, creating that irresistible cheesy crust.

Step 8: Rest and Enjoy

Let the bake cool slightly before serving so the layers settle and flavors meld together. Then dig in and savor the warm, comforting goodness of your homemade Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe.

How to Serve Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or green onions add a pop of color and a fresh bite that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the dish. A dollop of sour cream can also complement the savory flavors while adding a tangy creaminess that feels indulgent but balanced.

Side Dishes

This bake pairs nicely with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables to add lightness and crunch. Roasted root veggies or warm rustic bread also work beautifully, perfect for soaking up every last bit of the flavorful juices.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the bake in individual ramekins for a charming presentation or layer it in a clear casserole dish for a visually striking effect. Adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a drizzle of hot sauce at the table can elevate the experience and personalize each plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftovers into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors again with minimal effort.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and it will last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor retention.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to preserve the cheese’s meltiness and maintain the bake’s delicious texture. Alternatively, microwave until hot, but the oven method keeps everything tasting freshly baked and just as satisfying.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative, though beef provides that classic richness. Just adjust seasoning as needed for best flavor.

Is it possible to add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to mix in diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to enhance texture and nutrition. Just be mindful of moisture levels so the bake doesn’t become too watery.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely. This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your beef broth and seasonings don’t contain gluten. Always check the labels to be sure.

How spicy is the bake?

It has a mild warmth from black pepper but is generally mild. For extra heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce before baking.

Can I prepare the bake in advance?

Yes, you can assemble it the day before and keep it covered in the fridge. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the warm comfort and rich flavors of the Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe, especially on cooler nights when you crave a satisfying home-cooked meal. It’s straightforward to make, nourishing, and delicious enough to share with family or friends. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a treasured staple in your kitchen as it has become in mine.

Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe

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4 from 191 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Cabbage Beef Bake is a warm, cheesy, and comforting casserole perfect for a hearty family meal. Ground beef, chopped cabbage, rice, and tomatoes are layered and baked to perfection with a savory blend of seasonings and topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that combines wholesome ingredients for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat & Vegetables

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cups cabbage, chopped

Other Ingredients

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup cooked rice
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ cup beef broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Cook Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together until the beef is fully browned and the onion has softened.
Drain Fat: Drain any excess fat from the skillet to reduce greasiness in the dish.
Season Beef: Stir in garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the cooked beef mixture to enhance flavor.
Layer Cabbage: Spread half of the chopped cabbage evenly over the bottom of the baking dish.
Add Beef Mixture: Evenly spread the seasoned beef and onion mixture on top of the cabbage layer.
Layer Rice: Sprinkle the cooked rice evenly over the beef layer.
Add Tomatoes: Pour the diced tomatoes with their juice evenly over the rice layer for moisture and flavor.
Top with Remaining Cabbage: Add the remaining chopped cabbage as the next layer on top of the casserole.
Add Broth: Gently pour the beef broth over the entire dish to keep it moist during baking.
Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
Remove Foil: Carefully remove the foil from the dish after the initial baking time.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the casserole.
Bake Uncovered: Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Cool Slightly: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve this warm, cheesy cabbage beef bake as a satisfying and comforting meal.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding chopped garlic to the beef mixture while cooking.
You can substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella or a cheese blend if preferred.
Using freshly cooked rice will yield the best texture; leftover rice works as well.
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the layers for added nutrition.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American