When you open the oven door and see something hot and bubbling , it can really make your day . This bake mixes soft cabbage with hearty beef and simple spices so even beginners can cook it at home . It’s great for a busy evening or when you just want a warm plate of comfort . You can change it up by adding rice , veggies , or using cheese on top to suit your taste .
In this article , we’ll show you a clear rеcipe with easy steps , share why it’s good for you , and drop some tips to make it even more tasty . You’ll also find ideas to switch it up and make it your own dish .
What is Cabbаge Beef Bake?
Cаbbage Beef Bake is a simple dish that you layer cabbage and seasoned ground bеef . It cooks in the oven so the cabbage soaks up the flavor of beef and spices . Some people add cheese or a sauce on top . It is warm cоmfоrt food that many people like .
People in Eastern Europe have been making meals with cabbage for ages ; it was cheap and easy to grow . Later , it showed up in American kitchens around the 1950s when casseroles became a big hit . Now you can find it in many homes and blogs .
You can mix in cooked rice or swap beef for turkey or veggies like lentils . You can also toss in peppers or carrots ; it only adds more color and taste .
Nutritional Benefits
Cabbage gives you fiber , vitamin K for strong bones , and vitamin C to help your body fight colds . It’s low in calories , so you can eat a good amount without feeling bad .
Ground beef brings protein for your muscles and iron to help blood carry oxygen . It also has zinc , which boosts your immune system .
Together , cabbage and beef make a meal that is filling and healthy enough for a weeknight dinner .
Ingredients
To make this Cabbage Beef Bake , you will need:
- Cabbage: 1 medium head, chopped or shredded
- Ground Beef: 1 pound, seasoned to taste
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Rice: 1 cup (optional, for added texture)
- Tomato Sauce: 15 ounces (or diced tomatoes / marinara)
- Spices: Garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, oregano (use to taste)
- Cheese: 1 cup shredded (optional, for a cheesy top)
Optional extras:
- Bell peppers or carrots
- Ground turkey or chicken
Detailed Recipe for Cabbage Beef Bake
Preparation and Cooking Time
Total time: about 1 hour, including prep and bake .
Directions
1. Prepping the Ingredients
Chop the cabbage into thin slices and dice the onion . If you use rice, rinse it and set aside . Having everything ready makes the rest go fast .
2. Cooking the Beef
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until no pink remains . Drain any extra fat . Add the onion and cook until it turns soft . Season with garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano . Stir well .
3. Layering the Bake
Grease a baking dish . Start with a layer of cabbage, then half the beef mixture. Keep alternating until you finish, ending with cabbage on top .
4. Adding Sauce and Toppings
Mix the tomato sauce with the rest of the beef (and rice, if using) . Spread it over the cabbage layers . Sprinkle cheese on top , if you like .
5. Baking Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) . Cover with foil and bake 45 minutes . In the last 10–15 minutes, take off the foil so the cheese bubbles and browns .
6. Serving Suggestions
Let it cool a bit before serving . It goes great with a simple salad or crusty bread .
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Choose fresh cabbage: Look for firm heads with tight leaves , not wilted ones .
- Boost the flavor: Marinate beef in spices for an hour or slow cook it beforehand .
- Store leftovers: Cool completely, then keep in an airtight container. Fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months .
- Diet swaps: Skip rice for a low-carb version or use lentils for a vegetarian bake .
Variations of Cabbage Beef Bake
Vegetarian/Cheese-only Versions
Use lentils or chickpeas instead of beef . For a cheese-only bake , layer cabbage with different cheeses .
Spicy Variant
Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick .
Herb-Infused
Stir in fresh thyme or basil between layers for extra aroma .
Quick One-Pot Version
Put all ingredients in a big pot, cover, and simmer until the cabbage is soft . Less cleanup , same great taste .
Frequently Asked Questions
Section Introduction
This part answers common questions about Cabbage Beef Bake to help you cook it with ease .
- Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes , you can. Just adjust the seasonings so it still tastes bold .
- How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days or freeze them .
- Can I add other vegetables?
Sure ! Bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots all work well .
- What sides go with it?
Try a light salad, steamed veggies, or crusty bread .
- Is it gluten-free?
Yes , if you choose gluten-free sauces and skip breadcrumbs .
Conclusion
Cabbage Beef Bake is a mix of comfort and nutrition in one dish . Give it a try and tweak it to your taste . Share your versions with friends to spread the yum .
Cabbage Beef Bake
Equipment
- 1 large skillet
- 1 baking dish (9x13 inches)
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 cutting board
- 1 set measuring cups and spoons
- 1 spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups cabbage, chopped
- 2 cups diced tomatoes canned or fresh
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a large baking dish, layer half of the chopped cabbage evenly across the bottom.
- Pour half of the beef mixture over the cabbage, then add another layer of cabbage. Top with the remaining beef mixture.
- Finish with a final layer of cabbage. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
