Name: Savory Cabbage Beef Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small head green cabbage, chopped; 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce; 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional); 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp paprika; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)

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Savory Cabbage Beef Bake is a hearty, comforting casserole that layers seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, and a rich tomato sauce, all baked together for a simple and satisfying meal. This dish is perfect when I want something warm and filling that’s also budget-friendly and easy to prepare. With its classic flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s a recipe I can rely on any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly comforting, full of flavor, and made with simple, affordable ingredients. The cabbage becomes soft and sweet as it bakes, pairing perfectly with the savory beef and tomato base. It’s also a great way to sneak in veggies and stretch ground beef into a complete meal. Whether I serve it on its own or with a side of bread or rice, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Savory Cabbage Beef Bake

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Green cabbage, chopped
Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
Tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)
Salt and pepper
Dried oregano or Italian seasoning
Paprika
Olive oil
Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella, optional for topping)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a skillet, I cook the ground beef with the chopped onion until browned, then stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
I drain any excess fat, then add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings. I let the mixture simmer for 5–10 minutes.
While the beef simmers, I sauté the chopped cabbage in a bit of olive oil until it starts to soften, about 5–7 minutes.
I layer half of the cabbage in the baking dish, followed by the beef mixture, and top with the remaining cabbage.
I cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
If I’m adding cheese, I uncover the dish, sprinkle it over the top, and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
I let it cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. Prep time is around 20 minutes, and baking takes about 40–45 minutes, so it’s ready in just over an hour.

Variations

I add cooked rice or quinoa to the beef mixture for a heartier casserole.
I swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
I stir in a handful of spinach or shredded carrots for extra veggies.
I use diced tomatoes with green chilies for a spicier kick.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through. It also freezes well—just wrap tightly and thaw before reheating. Savory Cabbage Beef Bake

FAQs

Can I use red cabbage instead of green?

Yes, I can, but it changes the color and flavor slightly. Green cabbage tends to be sweeter and softer when baked.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. I assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to a day. I just bake it when ready to eat.

Does the cabbage need to be cooked first?

I like to sauté it lightly so it softens during baking, but I’ve also layered it raw for a firmer texture—it works either way.

What cheese works best for the topping?

I usually go with cheddar or mozzarella, but Parmesan adds a nice salty finish too.

Can I make it low-carb?

Yes, just skip any grains and avoid sugary tomato sauces. The beef, cabbage, and tomato combo on its own is already low-carb and delicious.

Conclusion

Savory Cabbage Beef Bake is a cozy, flavorful meal that’s as nourishing as it is comforting. I love how simple it is to make and how filling each bite is. With basic ingredients and bold flavor, it’s a reliable dish I keep coming back to whenever I want something hearty and homemade.