Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole has a way of making even the busiest weeknights feel cozy and comforting. I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma of savory beef, tender cabbage, and melting cheese filled my kitchen, instantly making it feel like home. It’s become my go-to for a reason – it’s an incredibly satisfying Cheesy Ground Beef and Cabbage Bake that’s surprisingly simple to pull together. If you’re looking for an Easy Cheesy Cabbage and Beef Casserole that’s packed with flavor and minimal fuss, you’ve found it. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

This dish is a weeknight wonder for so many reasons:

Incredible flavor: A perfect blend of savory beef, tender cabbage, and rich, gooey cheese.
Quick prep time: You can have this ready for the oven in just 15 minutes!
Healthier option: It’s a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional casseroles.
Budget-friendly: Uses simple, inexpensive ingredients that go a long way.
Family-friendly approved: Even picky eaters will devour this hearty meal.
The ultimate Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole comfort food experience.
It’s the perfect Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole dinner idea when you need something satisfying and easy.
Transforms simple ingredients into a delicious Cheesy Ground Beef and Cabbage Bake.

Ingredients for Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

Gathering your Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole ingredients is the first step to this amazing dinner. You’ll need:

2 lbs Ground Beef – I prefer 80/20 or 85/15 for the best flavor and moisture.
1 large head of Green Cabbage – About 6-8 cups, cored and either roughly chopped or shredded for tenderness.
1 large Yellow Onion, diced – This adds a wonderful sweetness as it cooks down.
4 cloves Garlic, minced – For that essential aromatic base.
1 tbsp Olive Oil or Avocado Oil – Use this only if your skillet needs a little extra help to prevent sticking.
8 oz Cream Cheese, cut into cubes and softened – This is key for creating a wonderfully creamy sauce that binds everything together.
1/2 cup Beef Broth – Low-sodium is best so you can control the saltiness.
1 tsp Smoked Paprika – Adds a lovely depth of flavor and a hint of smokiness.
1 tsp Dried Oregano – A classic herb that pairs perfectly with beef and cabbage.
1 tsp Salt – Or more, depending on your taste preference.
1/2 tsp Black Pepper – Freshly ground pepper makes a difference!
2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese, divided – Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds that signature cheesy goodness.

Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delicious Ground Beef Cabbage Cheese Bake that your family will adore.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and makes for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until no pink remains. I like to drain off most of the grease, leaving just a tablespoon or two for flavor. Transfer the cooked beef to a separate bowl.
Step 3: Add your diced yellow onion to the same skillet. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until it starts to soften and become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute more until fragrant. Don’t let the garlic burn!
Step 4: Toss in your chopped or shredded green cabbage. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring often, until the cabbage is wilted and tender-crisp. You want it softened but with a slight bite.
Step 5: Return the browned ground beef to the skillet with the cabbage mixture. Add your softened cream cheese, beef broth, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything over medium heat. Watch as the cream cheese melts into a wonderfully creamy sauce that coats all the ingredients.
Step 6: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted and gooey. This creates the base for your cheesy bake. Pour this delicious mixture into your prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
Step 7: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This is what gives it that irresistible golden, bubbly crust.
Step 8: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
Step 9: For an extra golden and slightly crisp topping, you can broil the casserole for the last 1-3 minutes. Keep a very close eye on it to prevent burning!
Step 10: Once out of the oven, let the Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole: 15-Min Prep - Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

Want to elevate your Cheesy Ground Beef and Cabbage Bake? Try these simple tricks:

Don’t overcook the cabbage; you want it tender-crisp, not mushy, for the best texture.
For an extra creamy sauce, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before adding it.
Shred your own cheddar cheese! Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can affect meltability.
Taste and adjust seasonings before adding the cheese; this ensures the flavor is just right.

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole?

The key is building layers of flavor and achieving that perfect creamy texture. Softened cream cheese and a touch of beef broth create a luscious sauce that makes this a truly decadent Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole cheesy bake.

Can I make Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole, minus the top layer of cheese, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. Add the remaining cheese and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole?

Avoid overcooking the cabbage, which makes it watery. Also, make sure to drain excess grease from the ground beef to prevent a greasy final product. Finally, don’t skip the resting time; it allows the casserole to set for easier serving.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

This incredibly satisfying Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides to round out the experience. It’s the perfect foundation for a Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole hearty meal.

Serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. The freshness cuts through the richness of the casserole beautifully.
A side of crusty bread or garlic bread is always a welcome addition for soaking up any extra cheesy sauce.
For a more substantial meal, consider a simple side of steamed green beans or roasted broccoli.

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

When you’re enjoying a hearty slice of this Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole, here’s a general idea of what you’re getting per serving. Remember, these are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, like the fat content of your ground beef or the type of cheese. For more information on the nutritional benefits of cabbage, you can check out this resource.

Calories: 450-550 kcal – A satisfying amount for a main course.
Fat: This will vary, but expect around 30-40g, contributing to richness.
Saturated Fat: Around 15-20g, primarily from the cheese and beef.
Protein: You’ll get a good dose, approximately 30-35g, thanks to the ground beef.
Carbohydrates: This is a lower-carb dish, so expect around 10-15g, mostly from the cabbage and onion.
Fiber: Cabbage contributes fiber, offering about 3-5g per serving.
Sugar: Minimal, usually around 5-7g, naturally occurring from the vegetables.
Sodium: Varies depending on broth and added salt, typically 600-800mg.

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole: 15-Min Prep - Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

Once your delicious Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole has cooled slightly, it’s time to think about storing any leftovers. Allowing the casserole to cool down at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before covering is best. This prevents excess condensation inside your storage container. For refrigeration, divide the casserole into smaller portions and store them in airtight containers. You can keep this delightful Ground Beef Cabbage Cheese Bake in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual portions securely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place them in freezer-safe bags. Properly stored, your Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole will stay good in the freezer for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it.

To reheat, you can place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, for a crispier topping, reheat individual servings in a 350°F (175°C) oven directly from the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes, or from frozen for about 30-40 minutes, until heated through. Using your original Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole casserole dish for reheating is also an option if you have leftovers directly from that.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

What is Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole?

It’s a hearty, comforting baked dish made with ground beef, shredded cabbage, creamy sauce, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s a fantastic way to transform simple ingredients into a satisfying meal, often praised as a delicious Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole family recipe.

Why is Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole popular?

This casserole is popular because it’s incredibly flavorful, budget-friendly, and uses common ingredients. It offers a delicious low-carb alternative that satisfies like a traditional comfort food, making it a winner for weeknight dinners and family gatherings alike. For more on the benefits of comfort food, you can read this article on comfort food and health.

Can I substitute the ground beef?

Absolutely! You can easily substitute ground turkey or even ground chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, consider using plant-based crumbles or extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.

What makes this recipe a great dinner idea?

It’s a complete meal in one dish, minimizing cleanup. The combination of savory beef, tender vegetables, and cheesy goodness makes it incredibly satisfying and appealing to a wide range of tastes, ensuring a stress-free and delicious meal. If you’re looking for other easy dinner ideas, check out these dinner recipes.

Variations of Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole You Can Try

While this recipe is fantastic as is, there are so many ways to customize your Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole! It’s a truly versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your preferences or dietary needs, all while remaining incredibly Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole budget-friendly.

Low-Carb & Keto Friendly: For an even lower-carb version, swap the cream cheese for a full-fat cream cheese alternative or use a blend of sour cream and Greek yogurt for the sauce. You can also add extra low-carb veggies like broccoli florets or cauliflower rice.
Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the onion and garlic sauté. A dash of hot sauce stirred into the creamy sauce before baking also works wonders.
Italian Twist: Instead of smoked paprika and oregano, try Italian seasoning and a bit of garlic powder. Top with mozzarella cheese alongside or instead of cheddar for a different cheesy profile.
Slow Cooker Method: Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first. Then, combine all ingredients (except the final cheese topping) in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Top with cheese and broil or cover until melted.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

This delightful Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole truly shines as a nourishing and delicious Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole one-pan meal. It’s the perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something incredibly satisfying and comforting. I hope you love making and eating this wonderful dish as much as I do!