Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole Recipe | Easy Comfort Food Dinner
Make creamed cabbage and ground beef casserole for a hearty, budget-friendly dinner. Tender cabbage, savory beef, and creamy sauce baked golden — perfect for cozy weeknight meals or family gatherings.
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.