Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Budget-Friendly: Cabbage and ground beef are affordable staples that provide great flavor and nutrition.
- Comfort Food: The creamy sauce and tender cabbage create a cozy, satisfying dish that everyone will love.
- Easy to Make: This recipe uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your dietary preferences or add your favorite veggies.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (can substitute with ground turkey or chicken)
- 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded or chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 cup chicken or beef broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or your favorite herbs)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
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Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
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Prepare the Cabbage: While the beef is cooking, shred or chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Blanch the cabbage in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to soften it slightly. Drain and set aside.
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Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet with the beef, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and broth, stirring to avoid lumps. Add paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
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Combine Everything: Add the blanched cabbage to the skillet and mix well. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, then sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.
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Bake: If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
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Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves 4-6 and takes about 45 minutes to prepare.
Variations
- Add More Veggies: Carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make the casserole gluten-free.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to keep it warm and crispy.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I serve with this casserole?
It pairs well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor. With its creamy sauce and tender cabbage, it’s perfect for feeding the family on a busy night. Plus, it’s customizable and can be made ahead of time for added convenience. Enjoy this delicious and budget-friendly dish!
Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole
Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is a comforting, budget-friendly dish that combines savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and a creamy, flavorful sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, this hearty casserole is easy to make with simple ingredients and can be customized to suit your tastes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Dish, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (can substitute with ground turkey or chicken)
1 medium head of cabbage, shredded or chopped
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
1 cup chicken or beef broth
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or your favorite herbs)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
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Preheat and Prep:
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
-
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Cook the Ground Beef:
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In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
-
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Prepare the Cabbage:
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While the beef is cooking, shred or chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Blanch the cabbage in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to soften it slightly. Drain and set aside.
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Make the Creamy Sauce:
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In the same skillet with the beef, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and broth, stirring to avoid lumps. Add paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
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Combine Everything:
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Add the blanched cabbage to the skillet and mix well. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, then sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.
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Bake:
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If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
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Serve:
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Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor.
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Notes
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Variations:
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Add extra veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrition.
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For a spicy version, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
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To make the dish gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to maintain the crispiness.
