Easy Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor, look no further than this Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole. This recipe combines tender cabbage with savory ground beef, all wrapped in a creamy sauce, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or busy weeknights. The blend of textures and rich, satisfying taste makes this casserole a truly cozy meal everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy evenings when you want a home-cooked meal fast.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy cabbage paired with seasoned ground beef delivers warmth in every bite.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses basic pantry staples and inexpensive ingredients without sacrificing flavor.
• Family Approved: A satisfying meal that kids and adults alike will ask for again and again.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite veggies or spices.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole are straightforward but essential for balancing flavor and texture. Each element plays a key role, whether enhancing the creaminess, adding depth, or contributing to the dish’s comforting heartiness.

• Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for a perfect balance of flavor and less grease.
• Green Cabbage: Provides a tender crunch and mild sweetness that complements the beef.
• Onion and Garlic: Classic aromatics that add depth and savoriness.
• Sour Cream or Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess and a slight tang that makes the casserole rich and smooth.
• Shredded Cheese: A melty topping like cheddar or mozzarella for gooey goodness.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance every ingredient’s flavor.
• Butter or Oil: Needed for sautéing and building flavor base.
• Optional Herbs and Spices: Paprika, thyme, or parsley bring added aroma and color.

Variations for Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

Feel free to make this dish your own! It’s very forgiving and easy to tweak based on what you have on hand, dietary preferences, or just to keep things interesting.

• Swap Ground Beef for Turkey: Use ground turkey for a leaner option that’s just as tasty.
• Add Different Vegetables: Incorporate carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.
• Use Different Creamy Bases: Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a healthier twist.
• Make It Spicier: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to bring some heat.
• Top with Breadcrumbs: Add a crunchy breadcrumb topping mixed with cheese for extra texture.

How to Make Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and finely dicing the onion and garlic. This preparation ensures everything cooks evenly and combines seamlessly with the ground beef.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat some butter or oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Remove excess fat if needed to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Cabbage

To the browned beef, add the onions and garlic. Cook until fragrant and translucent, then stir in the chopped cabbage, cooking until it softens but still retains a bit of crunch.

Step 4: Add the Creamy Component

Lower the heat and stir in sour cream or cream cheese, allowing it to melt gently and coat the beef and cabbage mixture. This creaminess ties the dish together beautifully.

Step 5: Season and Combine

Season the mixture generously with salt, pepper, and any optional herbs or spices you like. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

Step 6: Transfer and Top

Pour the mixture into a casserole dish and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. This will melt and form a golden, bubbly crust in the oven.

Step 7: Bake Until Hot and Bubbling

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through perfectly.

Pro Tips for Making Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

• Drain Excess Fat: Removing excess grease from the browned beef helps keep the casserole from being too oily.
• Don’t Overcook Cabbage: Keep some texture by sautéing it until just tender, not mushy.
• Choose the Right Cheese: A mild cheddar or mozzarella melts well and adds great flavor without overpowering.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking for easier slicing and better flavor melding.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme before serving to brighten the dish.

How to Serve Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

Garnishes

Top with freshly chopped parsley or green onions to add a pop of color and fresh flavor that contrast nicely with the creamy, rich casserole.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to add freshness and balance to the meal. Crusty bread or warm dinner rolls also make fabulous companions for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style presentation, serve straight from the casserole dish. Alternatively, scoop portions into individual ramekins for a charming and personal touch at the dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the creamy sauce.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well. Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through for the best texture, or use the microwave for a quicker option, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cabbage for this casserole?

Absolutely! Green cabbage works best for its mild flavor, but you can use savoy or napa cabbage for a slightly different texture and taste.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the basic Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole recipe is gluten-free, but avoid adding breadcrumbs or choose gluten-free options for any toppings.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian version.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Mild cheddar and mozzarella are excellent choices because they melt well and add creaminess without overpowering the flavors.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole a day in advance, keep it covered in the refrigerator, and bake it just before serving to save time on busy days.

Final Thoughts

This Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is a true gem for any home cook looking for a quick, crowd-pleasing meal that doesn’t skimp on comfort. Whether for a family dinner or busy weeknight, its wonderful blend of creamy textures and savory flavors makes it a recipe that’s bound to keep showing up on your menu. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite!

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