For the Bake:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced (about 6–8 cups)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional, for added juiciness)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls (optional, for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a large baking dish or skillet (oven-safe if using the same pan for cooking and baking).
2. Sauté the Beef
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Layer the Cabbage
- Stir the sliced cabbage into the skillet with the beef mixture.
- Add the diced tomatoes (if using), smoked paprika, thyme or oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften slightly.
4. Bake Until Tender
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish (or leave it in the skillet if oven-safe).
- Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top, and return to the oven for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve hot as a standalone dish or with crusty bread for soaking up the juices.
- Enjoy every bite of this comforting, flavorful bake!
Tips for Success
- Choose Thinly Sliced Cabbage: Thinly slicing the cabbage helps it cook evenly and blends beautifully with the beef.
- Add Extras: Boost the flavor with ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Make It Cheesy: Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and Parmesan for extra richness.
- Double the Recipe: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers or freezing for future meals.
- Experiment with Greens: Swap part of the cabbage for spinach, kale, or collard greens for a nutrient boost.
Why This Recipe Works
This Cabbage Beef Bake combines the natural sweetness of cabbage with the savory richness of ground beef, creating a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. The slow baking process allows the flavors to meld together while softening the cabbage to perfection. Topped with gooey melted cheese, it’s a one-pan meal that’s as delicious as it is convenient.
Conclusion: A Dish That Does It All
Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a casual dinner, or meal-prepping for the week, this Cabbage Beef Bake is sure to impress. Its hearty flavors, simple preparation, and versatility make it a standout dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Plus, its one-pan design means you can spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying the company of loved ones—or just relaxing!
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your twist on this cabbage beef bake might just inspire others to try it too! 🥶✨