How to Make a Delicious Cabbage Ground Beef Casserole

Growing up in a busy Midwestern kitchen, I discovered the magic of comfort food. It was always affordable, hearty, and could feed a hungry family. One of my all-time favorites? Cabbage Ground Beef Casserole—a simple dish that transforms everyday ingredients into something extraordinary.

This casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a flavorful, nutritious, and budget-friendly dinner option. Made with lean ground beef, fresh cabbage, and melted cheese, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying and easy to prepare.

If you’re looking for a comforting, one-dish dinner that won’t break the bank, this recipe is for you. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, pro tips, and meal prep options to make the best cabbage ground beef casserole you’ve ever tasted.

Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Ground Beef Casserole

Wondering why this dish is a must-try? Here are some reasons you’ll love it:

✅ Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients
✅ Nutritious – Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins
✅ Easy to Make – Requires minimal prep and just one baking dish
✅ Great for Meal Prep – Stores well for leftovers or freezing
✅ Customizable – Add rice, tomatoes, or different seasonings to make it your own

Health Benefits of Cabbage and Ground Beef

This nutrient-packed recipe is both hearty and healthy:

• High in Protein – 19g per serving to support muscle health
• Low in Carbs – Only 10g per serving, perfect for keto diets
• Rich in Fiber – Cabbage provides digestive benefits
• Loaded with Vitamins – High in vitamins A, C, and K

Perfect for Busy Families

With just 10 ingredients and 30 minutes of prep, this casserole is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It’s filling, comforting, and sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious cabbage ground beef casserole, you’ll need:

Core Ingredients:

✔️ 1 pound lean ground beef
✔️ 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
✔️ 1 green bell pepper, diced
✔️ 6 cups fresh cabbage, shredded
✔️ 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Seasoning Essentials:

✔️ 2 cloves garlic, minced
✔️ 1 teaspoon paprika
✔️ Salt & pepper to taste
✔️ (Optional) ¼ teaspoon Cajun spice for extra heat

Optional Add-Ins for More Flavor:

✔️ 1.5 cups cooked rice (for a heartier dish)
✔️ 15-ounce can diced tomatoes (adds acidity)
✔️ 1 tablespoon cider vinegar (for a subtle tang)
✔️ ½ teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)

💡 Pro Tip: Using grass-fed beef and organic cabbage enhances both flavor and nutrition!

Essential Kitchen Tools for Easy Cooking

Before you start, having the right kitchen tools makes the process easier:

Baking Dishes & Cookware:

✔️ 1½-quart ceramic baking dish (ideal for even cooking)
✔️ Large skillet (for browning beef)

Cooking Utensils:

✔️ Wooden spoon (for stirring)
✔️ Measuring cups & spoons (for precise ingredient portions)
✔️ Sharp chef’s knife (for chopping cabbage & onions)

💡 Time-Saving Gadgets:

• Food processor (quickly shreds cabbage)
• Digital meat thermometer (ensures beef is fully cooked)
• Microplane grater (for freshly grated cheese)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cabbage Ground Beef Casserole

1. Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture

1️⃣ Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2️⃣ Add chopped onions and bell peppers; sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
3️⃣ Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4️⃣ Add ground beef, breaking it into crumbles. Cook until browned (internal temp: 160°F).
5️⃣ Drain excess grease and season with paprika, salt, pepper, and Cajun spice.

💡 Pro Tip: Draining excess fat keeps your casserole from becoming greasy.

2. Prep & Cook the Cabbage

1️⃣ Remove the outer leaves from the cabbage and rinse thoroughly.
2️⃣ Cut into thin ½-inch slices.
3️⃣ Pre-cook the cabbage for better texture:

• Boil for 6-8 minutes until tender
• Sauté for added depth of flavor

💡 Pro Tip: Slightly pre-cooking cabbage prevents excessive moisture in the casserole.

3. Assemble the Casserole for Baking

1️⃣ Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2️⃣ Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
3️⃣ Layer half of the shredded cabbage at the bottom.
4️⃣ Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over the cabbage.
5️⃣ Add the remaining cabbage on top.
6️⃣ Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

💡 Pro Tip: Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting!

4. Bake Until Golden & Bubbly

1️⃣ Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes.
2️⃣ For a golden cheese crust, switch to broil mode for the last 2 minutes.
3️⃣ Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.

🔥 How to Know It’s Done:
✔️ Bubbling edges
✔️ Golden-brown cheese on top
✔️ Ground beef internal temp: 160°F

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

This casserole is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store leftovers:

Refrigeration:

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes.

Freezing Instructions:

• Freeze before or after baking (up to 3 months).
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap + foil.
• Reheat frozen casserole at 375°F for 45 minutes.

💡 Pro Tip: Portion into individual servings before freezing for quick weeknight meals.

Recipe Variations & Customizations

🌱 For a Low-Carb Version:
✔️ Swap rice for cauliflower rice

🧀 For Extra Creaminess:
✔️ Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream before baking

🌶️ For More Spice:
✔️ Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce

What to Serve with Cabbage Ground Beef Casserole

This dish pairs well with:
🥗 Green Salad – adds freshness
🥖 Crusty Bread – perfect for scooping up sauce
🍷 Red Wine – complements the beef flavors

Pro Tips for the Best Cabbage Ground Beef Casserole

Want to make your casserole taste even better? Follow these expert tips:

1. Use the Right Ground Beef Ratio

For maximum flavor without excess grease, choose ground beef that’s 85% lean and 15% fat. This ensures a juicy, flavorful casserole.

💡 Pro Tip: If using leaner meat (90/10 or 93/7), add 1 tablespoon olive oil for extra moisture.

2. Enhance the Cabbage’s Natural Sweetness

Cabbage releases natural sugars when cooked, making it taste slightly sweet. To boost flavor:
✔️ Sauté cabbage in butter for a richer taste
✔️ Add a splash of cider vinegar for balance
✔️ Roast cabbage before adding it to the casserole for caramelized depth

3. Don’t Overload the Casserole Dish

For even cooking, don’t pack the dish too tightly. A deep casserole dish allows flavors to develop properly.

How to Add More Flavor to Your Casserole

While this dish is already delicious, here are some ways to take it to the next level:

1. Add a Tomato-Based Sauce

Want a richer taste? Stir in ½ cup tomato sauce or fire-roasted diced tomatoes. It gives the casserole a slight tang and depth.

2. Incorporate More Seasonings

Besides paprika, garlic, and salt, try:
✔️ Worcestershire sauce – for umami depth
✔️ Dried thyme – enhances the beef flavor
✔️ Cumin – adds an earthy warmth

3. Use a Cheese Blend

Instead of just cheddar, mix in:
🧀 Mozzarella – for extra creaminess
🧀 Parmesan – for a nutty, salty kick
🧀 Colby Jack – for a melty, buttery flavor

💡 Pro Tip: Add 1 tablespoon cream cheese for an ultra-creamy texture.

Different Ways to Cook This Cabbage Ground Beef Casserole

This casserole can be made in different ways depending on your cooking preferences:

1. Slow Cooker Version (Set & Forget!)

If you prefer a hands-off approach, use a slow cooker:

• Brown the ground beef, onions, and peppers in a skillet
• Layer the cabbage and beef mixture in the slow cooker
• Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours
• Add cheese in the last 20 minutes and let it melt

✔️ Best for busy weeknights or meal prepping!

2. Instant Pot (Quick & Easy Method)

• Use the sauté function to brown the beef
• Add cabbage, seasonings, and broth
• Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, then quick release
• Top with cheese and let it melt before serving

✔️ Best for fast cooking with deep flavor!

3. Skillet Version (Stovetop Only)

• Cook beef and cabbage together in a large skillet
• Stir in cheese, sauce, and spices
• Cover and let it simmer for 15 minutes

✔️ Best for one-pan, quick meals!

Meal Prep Tips: Making This Casserole Ahead of Time

One of the best parts about this recipe is that it’s meal prep-friendly. Here’s how to prepare it in advance:

Make-Ahead Option:

✔️ Assemble the entire casserole (without baking)
✔️ Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap
✔️ Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours
✔️ Bake when ready

💡 Pro Tip: Add cheese fresh before baking for the best texture!

Freezing Instructions:

Want to freeze this casserole for future meals?
✔️ Cool the baked casserole completely
✔️ Wrap tightly in plastic wrap + aluminum foil
✔️ Freeze for up to 3 months
✔️ To reheat, bake at 375°F for 45 minutes (covered)

✔️ Great for make-ahead family dinners!

Serving Ideas: What to Eat with Cabbage Ground Beef Casserole

Pair your casserole with these delicious side dishes:

🥗 Fresh Salads:
✔️ Classic Caesar Salad
✔️ Cucumber & Tomato Salad
✔️ Greek Salad with Feta

🥖 Bread & Rolls:
✔️ Garlic Bread
✔️ Buttery Dinner Rolls
✔️ Crusty Artisan Bread

🥔 Comforting Side Dishes:
✔️ Mashed Potatoes
✔️ Roasted Sweet Potatoes
✔️ Steamed White Rice

🍷 Best Drinks to Pair With This Dish:
✔️ Red Wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon) – pairs well with beef
✔️ Iced Tea with Lemon – refreshing contrast
✔️ Light Beer (Pale Ale or Lager) – complements the richness

💡 Pro Tip: Serve with a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Here’s a nutrition breakdown for this healthy, high-protein dish:

💡 Low-carb & keto-friendly with high protein!

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Affordable & Budget-Friendly – Made with simple, low-cost ingredients
✔️ Hearty & Comforting – Perfect for cozy dinners
✔️ Meal Prep Approved – Stores well for leftovers
✔️ Customizable – Add your own twist with different meats, cheeses, or spices

This cabbage ground beef casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s a meal that brings families together. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a special gathering, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

👉 Now it’s your turn! Try this recipe and let me know how it turns out. 😋

FAQs About Cabbage Ground Beef Casserole

❓ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or sausage.

❓ How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too watery?

• Pre-cook the cabbage to remove excess moisture
• Drain the ground beef well after browning
• Use a shallow dish to allow water to evaporate

❓ Can I add potatoes to this casserole?

Absolutely! Thinly slice potatoes and layer them with the cabbage.

❓ How long does this casserole last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

❓ What’s the best cheese for this casserole?

Cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan melt beautifully and enhance flavor.