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.
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)
Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Serve:
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor.
Variations:
Add extra veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrition.
For a spicy version, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
To make the dish gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
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 maintain the crispiness.