Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

Hey friend! If you’re in the mood for a cozy, comforting dish that’ll fill your home with delicious aromas, then I’ve got just the recipe for you. Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is the kind of dish that’s perfect for those nights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine a creamy, savory casserole with tender cabbage and perfectly cooked ground beef—trust me, this one’s a keeper! It’s a dish that’s not only easy to make but will quickly become a go-to meal for the whole family. So let’s dive in and get cooking!

Why You’ll Love Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating those warm, feel-good moments around the dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a quiet night in or feeding a crowd, this casserole is the kind of dish that always delivers. Here’s why this casserole will become your new favorite:

Versatile

Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend get-togethers. The beauty of this casserole is that it works in all kinds of settings. You can whip it up when you’re short on time, or you can make it ahead for a relaxed evening with friends. It’s super adaptable to whatever vibe you’re going for.

Budget-Friendly

Using ingredients that are probably already in your kitchen, this recipe is incredibly cost-effective. No need for fancy or hard-to-find ingredients—just simple, honest flavors that combine to create something amazing.

Quick and Easy

You don’t have to be a gourmet chef to pull this off. The steps are simple and beginner-friendly, so even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll feel like a pro. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, which means less mess and cleanup for you.

Customizable

Feel free to get creative! If you love a bit of heat, add some chili flakes or hot sauce. Want to go lighter on the cream? Swap out for a healthier version. You can make this dish exactly how you like it.

Crowd-Pleasing

Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or adventurous foodies, this casserole strikes the perfect balance of rich and comforting. It’s a sure-fire hit at family meals, potlucks, or any gathering. People will be asking for the recipe before the last bite is even gone.

Ingredients in Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

Here’s the magic of this casserole—it’s made with a handful of simple ingredients, but it packs a ton of flavor. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

• Ground Beef: The hearty base of the dish. This adds that savory, meaty goodness that brings everything together.
• Cabbage: The star of the show. When cooked down, cabbage becomes tender and sweet, and it pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the beef.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is what gives the casserole that creamy, dreamy texture. It binds everything together and makes each bite feel indulgent.
• Onion: Adds a little sharpness and sweetness to balance out the richness of the beef.
• Cheese: Melted on top for that gooey, cheesy goodness that makes this casserole irresistible.
• Garlic: Because, let’s be real, garlic makes everything better.
• Seasonings: Simple staples like salt, pepper, and maybe a little paprika or thyme to enhance the overall flavor.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to make this flavorful casserole:

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to the right temperature. Preheating is essential to get that golden, bubbling crust we all love on a casserole.

Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and cooked through. Make sure to crumble the beef as it cooks so you get nice little bits of beef in every bite. Once done, drain any excess fat, and set it aside.

Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant. This step will help bring out their natural sweetness and savory depth.

Cook the Cabbage

Add the cabbage to the skillet and cook it down until it’s tender and slightly caramelized. It should shrink in size and turn a lovely golden color. The cabbage will absorb all the wonderful flavors from the beef and onions, creating the perfect base for your casserole.

Combine Everything

In a large bowl, mix the cooked ground beef, sautéed onion and garlic, and cooked cabbage. Add the cream of mushroom soup and stir everything together until it’s well combined.

Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and top with a generous amount of shredded cheese. This will melt into a deliciously gooey, golden layer that’s just perfect.

Bake to Perfection

Bake the casserole in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You want that crispy, cheesy top to form, so make sure it gets a little golden and delicious.

Finishing Touches

Once it’s done, let it sit for a few minutes to cool and set. It’ll make serving easier and let all those flavors settle.

Serve and Enjoy

Dish it up and enjoy the cozy comfort of this casserole! It pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy goodness.

How to Serve Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you’re looking for a little variety, here are some great serving suggestions:

Fresh Salads

Pair it with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the casserole. The fresh crunch of the salad complements the creamy casserole perfectly.

Crusty Bread

Serve it with warm, crusty bread for a classic touch. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully for soaking up any extra sauce.

Vegetable Sides

Roasted vegetables like carrots or green beans would add a lovely contrast in texture and color. They’re also a great way to get in some extra nutrients.

As a Standalone

Sometimes, a dish like this is hearty enough on its own. Just garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and a little extra flavor.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to make this casserole even better:

Prep Ahead

Chop and measure your ingredients the night before to save time. You can store them in airtight containers in the fridge and have everything ready to go when you need it.

Spice It Up

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some smoked paprika for a little heat. You can adjust the seasoning based on what you like!

Dietary Adjustments

If you’re looking to make this dish lighter, you can use a low-fat cream of mushroom soup, or substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to preserve that delicious creamy texture.

Double the Batch

This casserole freezes beautifully, so why not double the recipe? Freeze half for an easy meal later on when you’re short on time.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

A1: Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken would work perfectly as a leaner alternative.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A2: Yes, it’s a great make-ahead recipe! You can assemble it and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re baking it cold from the fridge.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?

A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy again.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?

A4: Yes! Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this casserole?

A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?

A6: Of course! Just make sure to use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time slightly to accommodate the extra servings.

Q7: What side dishes go well with this recipe?

A7: Pair it with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or some garlic bread for the perfect meal.

Q8: How can I make this dish healthier?

A8: You can use a lighter cream of mushroom soup, leaner meat like ground turkey, and add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.

Q9: What’s the best cookware to use for this recipe?

A9: A 9×13-inch baking dish works best. If you have a ceramic or glass dish, that’s even better for even cooking.

Conclusion

There you have it, my friend—Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole! This dish is packed with flavor, comfort, and just the right amount of creamy indulgence. It’s perfect for feeding the family, hosting a casual get-together, or even just treating yourself to something warm and hearty. You’re going to love every bite, and I bet it’ll quickly become one of your favorites. Happy cooking!

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