It was one of those chilly evenings when all I wanted was something comforting, warm, and easy to put together. I had a head of cabbage sitting in the fridge and some ground beef that needed to be used—so, naturally, this cabbage casserole came to life. I wasn’t expecting it to be such a hit, but after that first forkful, I knew I had found a new weeknight favorite.
It’s hearty, flavorful, and full of simple ingredients that somehow become magic when baked together. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers for the next few days, this dish delivers. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug in a casserole dish.
Short Description
This hearty cabbage casserole combines layers of tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese. It’s a comforting, easy-to-make dish perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends at home.
Key Ingredients
- 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Tools Needed
- Large skillet
- 9×13” baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife & cutting board
- Cheese grater (if using block cheese)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add diced onions and cook for 2–3 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes
Stir in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes to allow the flavors to come together.
Step 4: Cook the Cabbage
In another pan, heat the remaining oil and sauté the chopped cabbage for 8–10 minutes until slightly softened. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
Layer half the cabbage in the baking dish, spoon over half of the beef mixture, and sprinkle with cheese. Repeat the layers and finish with a generous topping of cheese.
Step 6: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake another 10–15 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
Step 7: Let Rest & Serve
Allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.
Why You’ll Love It
- Simple and satisfying – Made with pantry staples
- Comfort in a dish – Cozy and flavorful
- Feeds a crowd – Great for leftovers too
- Customizable – Add rice, sausage, or even top with breadcrumbs for extra texture
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
FAQs
Can I use red cabbage?
Yes, though it will have a slightly different flavor and color.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work great.
Can I add rice to make it more filling?
Absolutely! Add 1–2 cups of cooked rice in between layers.
Final Thoughts
This cabbage casserole is one of those humble, feel-good meals that doesn’t ask for much but delivers big. It’s become a regular in my rotation, especially when I want something low-fuss yet super satisfying. Give it a try—you might just find yourself looking forward to cabbage night!