Laura Mariano
Introduction to Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole
When the weather turns chilly and comfort food calls, few dishes satisfy like a hearty casserole. The Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is a cozy, budget-friendly option perfect for family dinners or hearty winter meals. It combines the rustic pairing of cabbage and beef—two staples that have long been enjoyed together in kitchens worldwide—with a creamy sauce that elevates the dish into something indulgent yet approachable.
This casserole layers tender cabbage with seasoned ground beef, then blankets everything in a velvety cream sauce and cheese. Baked until golden and bubbling, it delivers a meal that’s both filling and flavorful, ideal for feeding a crowd or preparing ahead for busy nights.
Whether served with crusty bread, a side salad, or simply on its own, this dish embodies the essence of comfort food: simple ingredients transformed into something warm, satisfying, and deeply nourishing.
The Comfort Food Appeal
Casseroles have always been timeless family favorites, offering convenience, heartiness, and versatility. The Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole adds a unique twist by incorporating cabbage, which brings a slightly sweet, earthy flavor and a tender texture once baked.
The creamy sauce balances the savory richness of ground beef, while cheese adds indulgence. Together, these elements create a dish that’s hearty yet comforting, perfect for cold evenings or gatherings where you want to serve something filling and familiar.
Flavor Profile Breakdown
- Ground beef: Savory, rich, and filling, forming the base of the casserole.
- Creamed cabbage: Velvety, slightly sweet, and earthy, adding balance and texture.
- Cheese or cream sauce: Indulgent, creamy, and comforting, binding the layers together.
- Optional extras: Onions, garlic, herbs, or breadcrumbs for added depth and crunch.
The result is a dish that’s savory, creamy, and satisfying, with a balance of richness and freshness.
Ingredient Breakdown
- Ground beef: Lean or regular, depending on preference. Darker mince adds richness.
- Cabbage: Green or savoy, chopped or shredded for tender layers.
- Cream sauce: Heavy cream, milk, or sour cream for velvety texture.
- Aromatics: Onion, garlic, and butter for depth of flavor.
- Cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan for indulgence.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, thyme for balance.
- Garnishes: Parsley or breadcrumbs for freshness and crunch.
Tip: Blanch cabbage briefly to soften before baking, ensuring tender layers in the finished casserole.
Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole Recipe | Easy Comfort Food Dinner
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Saucepan
- Cutting board and knife
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage (green or savoy), chopped
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream (or sour cream for tang)
- ½ cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp thyme
- Garnishes: parsley, breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Prepare cabbage: Chop cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Blanch in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then drain well. Alternatively, sauté in butter for 5 minutes.
- Brown beef with aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook until browned.
- Make cream sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute. Slowly add milk or cream, whisking until smooth. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir in grated cheese.
- Layer casserole: Grease a baking dish. Spread half the cabbage, then half the beef, then half the sauce. Repeat layers.
- Top and bake: Sprinkle with cheese or breadcrumbs. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley. Serve family-style or in individual portions with bread or salad.
Notes
- Tip: Blanch cabbage briefly to soften before baking.
- Make-ahead: Assemble unbaked casserole, refrigerate up to 24 hours, then bake fresh.
- Variations: Try spicy with chili flakes, veggie-loaded with mushrooms and spinach, or deluxe with bacon.
- Serving idea: Great for potlucks, family dinners, or as a kid-friendly weeknight meal.
