Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole combining tender green cabbage and savory lean ground beef in a creamy sauce, topped with melted cheese. Quick and simple to prepare, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, budget-friendly, family-approved, and easily customizable with different veggies, spices, or protein substitutes.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium green cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sour cream or cream cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp butter or oil (for sautéing)
Optional Herbs and Spices
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and finely dice the onion and garlic to ensure even cooking and blending with the beef.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat butter or oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary to avoid greasiness.
- Sauté Aromatics and Cabbage: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the browned beef. Cook until fragrant and translucent, then stir in the chopped cabbage. Cook until the cabbage softens but still retains a bit of crunch.
- Add the Creamy Component: Lower the heat and stir in sour cream or cream cheese, allowing it to gently melt and coat the beef and cabbage mixture, bringing the dish together with creamy richness.
- Season and Combine: Season generously with salt, pepper, and any optional herbs or spices chosen. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the mixture.
- Transfer and Top: Pour the mixture into a casserole dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top to create a melty, golden crust.
- Bake Until Hot and Bubbling: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the casserole is thoroughly heated.
Notes
- Drain excess fat from the browned beef to keep the casserole from being too oily.
- Don’t overcook the cabbage; sauté until just tender for some texture.
- Use mild cheddar or mozzarella cheese for best melting and balanced flavor.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to firm up and enhance flavor melding.
- Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme before serving to brighten the dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
Keywords: creamed cabbage casserole, ground beef casserole, creamy cabbage, comfort food, easy dinner, weeknight casserole, family meal, gluten free casserole