This Cheesy Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for any night of the week. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, and creamy cheese sauce creates a delicious and satisfying meal. It’s a great way to incorporate vegetables into a family-friendly dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 1/2 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef and Vegetable Mixture
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook Beef: Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
- Add Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Add Carrot and Cabbage: Stir in the grated carrot and sliced cabbage. Cook until the cabbage is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season: Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, eggs, and milk. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer Ingredients: In a large baking dish, spread half of the beef and vegetable mixture in an even layer.
- Add Cheese Sauce: Pour half of the cheese sauce over the beef and vegetable layer.
- Repeat Layers: Add the remaining beef and vegetable mixture, followed by the remaining cheese sauce. Spread the sauce evenly over the top.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve: Serve the cheesy ground beef and cabbage casserole hot, with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Cooking Notes
- Cabbage: Ensure the cabbage is thinly sliced for even cooking. You can use a mandoline slicer to achieve uniform slices.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to use other types of cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss for different flavor profiles.
- Extra Veggies: Add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the beef mixture for added nutrition and variety.
Variations
Low-Carb/Keto Version:
- Use full-fat dairy products and skip the carrots to keep the carb count low.
Gluten-Free Version:
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure all ingredients, particularly the cheese and mayonnaise, are certified gluten-free if necessary.
Vegan Version:
- Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat, and use vegan cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture.
Tips for Perfect Casserole
- Season Well: Ensure the beef mixture is well-seasoned before layering in the casserole dish. This adds depth of flavor to the dish.
- Even Layers: Spread the layers evenly to ensure that each bite has a bit of everything.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow it to set, making it easier to serve.
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of savory beef, tender cabbage, and creamy cheese sauce makes it a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness and the simplicity of this one-dish wonder!
Enjoy your Cheesy Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole!
