Easy Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

If you’re searching for a comforting, wholesome meal that brings together simple ingredients with rich, creamy flavors, this Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is exactly what you need. This dish is easy to prepare, perfect for quick family dinners, and satisfies those cozy comfort food cravings with every bite. Combining tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a luscious creamy sauce, it’s a one-pan wonder guaranteed to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Convenient: Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous family meals.
• Hearty and Comforting: The creamy texture paired with seasoned beef and soft cabbage creates a deeply satisfying dish.
• Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Uses everyday staples that won’t break the bank but deliver maximum flavor.
• One-Pan Simplicity: Minimal cleanup because everything cooks directly in the casserole dish or skillet.
• Adaptable and Nourishing: Easy to modify with vegetables or spices to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole recipe shines because of its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each adds its own dimension of flavor, texture, or color to round out the dish into a perfect comfort food meal.

• Ground Beef: Provides rich, savory flavor and protein to keep the dish filling and satisfying.
• Green Cabbage: Adds mild sweetness and tender crunch that balances the richness of the beef and cream sauce.
• Onion and Garlic: Essential aromatics that deepen the flavor profile and add warmth.
• Heavy Cream or Sour Cream: Creates the signature creamy sauce that binds the ingredients together smoothly.
• Cheese (optional): A sprinkle of cheddar or mozzarella adds gooey, melty richness and a beautiful golden finish.
• Seasonings (salt, pepper, paprika): These simple spices enhance the flavors without overpowering the freshness of the cabbage.
• Butter or Oil: For sautéing and adding a subtle indulgent touch.

Variations for Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

The beauty of this Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is how easily it can be tweaked to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. Feel free to experiment and make it your own with these variation ideas.

• Swap Ground Meat: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles to lighten or veganize the dish.
• Add More Veggies: Stir in carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for additional texture and nutrients.
• Use Greek Yogurt: Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier, lower-fat creamy sauce.
• Spice It Up: Add chili flakes, cumin, or smoked paprika for a little kick that warms from the inside out.
• Top with Breadcrumbs: A crunchy breadcrumb topping mixed with parmesan adds a delightful contrast to the creamy filling.

How to Make Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, finely dicing the onion, and mincing the garlic. This prepped mixture will cook evenly and blend beautifully in the casserole.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat some butter or oil and cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Break it apart as it cooks for crumblier texture.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics and Cabbage

Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened and fragrant. Then stir in the cabbage, cooking until it begins to soften and wilt but still retains a bit of texture.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream or sour cream, stirring well to coat the cabbage and beef. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika, letting the mixture gently simmer so the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Transfer this mixture to a baking dish. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the sauce set slightly for the perfect comforting scoop.

Pro Tips for Making Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

• Use Fresh Cabbage: Fresher cabbage means sweeter flavor and crunchier texture.
• Drain Excess Fat: After browning the beef, drain any excess fat for a lighter casserole.
• Don’t Overcook Cabbage: Keep a slight bite to the cabbage instead of mushy—it enhances texture and taste.
• Customize the Cream Base: Combine cream with a little broth or milk to control thickness perfectly.
• Let It Rest: Resting the casserole helps the creamy sauce settle into a luscious consistency.

How to Serve Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

Garnishes

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives on top for a burst of vibrant color and freshness, which brightens up the hearty casserole.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed green beans, a crisp garden salad, or buttery mashed potatoes to make the meal even more satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual ramekins for a charming presentation or as a layered dish with mashed potatoes or a crust topping for a shepherd’s pie twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover casserole in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days, preserving the creamy texture and flavor.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well; cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (165°C) or microwave in short bursts to keep the sauce creamy without drying out the beef and cabbage.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cabbage?

Yes, you can substitute green cabbage with Napa or Savoy for a milder or more tender texture, but they may alter the cooking time slightly.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It reheats beautifully and can be portioned out for grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut cream or a non-dairy sour cream alternative and plant-based cheese substitutes to make it dairy-free.

How can I make it spicier?

Add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or chopped fresh jalapeños when cooking the beef to infuse the casserole with a spicy kick.

What can I serve instead of cheese topping?

You can use toasted breadcrumbs, crushed nuts, or even fried onions to add a crunchy topping without cheese.

Final Thoughts

This Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is a heartwarming dish that effortlessly combines simple ingredients into a soul-satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or craving a comforting dinner, this casserole hits all the right notes. Dive in and enjoy the cozy, creamy goodness that everyone will love!

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