Cheesy Beef and Cabbage Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: Cheesy Beef and Cabbage Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds lean ground beef; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 0.5 cup minced onion; 2 cloves minced garlic; 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning; 0.5 teaspoon dill; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon pepper; 24 ounces marinara sauce; 14 ounces diced tomatoes (with juice); 2 cups cooked rice; 2 tablespoons butter; 6 cups roughly chopped cabbage; 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese

Introduction to Cheesy Beef and Cabbage Casserole

Welcome to the world of Cheesy Beef and Cabbage Casserole, a delightful dish that combines savory beef, tender cabbage, and gooey cheese for a meal that warms the heart. This recipe is not just about the ingredients; it’s about creating a comforting experience that brings family and friends together around the dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend gatherings, this casserole is a satisfying choice that everyone will love.

A Personal Story Behind My Cheesy Beef and Cabbage Casserole Journey

Each family has its own culinary traditions, and for me, this Cheesy Beef and Cabbage Casserole holds a special place in my heart. Growing up, my grandmother would prepare this dish on cold winter nights, filling our home with the inviting aroma of beef and spices. It became a staple at family gatherings, where laughter and stories were shared over generous helpings. Now, I love to make it for my own family, carrying on the tradition and creating new memories with each bite.

What Makes This Cheesy Beef and Cabbage Casserole Recipe Special?

This Cheesy Beef and Cabbage Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. The combination of lean ground beef and fresh cabbage creates a hearty base, while the marinara sauce and diced tomatoes add a rich, tangy depth. The shredded Colby Jack cheese topping melts beautifully, creating a bubbly, golden layer that is simply irresistible. Not to mention, it’s an easy one-dish meal that saves on cleanup time, making it perfect for busy cooks.

The Full Cheesy Beef and Cabbage Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup minced onion
2 cloves minced garlic
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon dill
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
24 ounces marinara sauce, homemade or store-bought
1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
2 cups cooked rice
2 tablespoons butter
6 cups roughly chopped cabbage
2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 ½ pounds of lean ground beef and ½ cup minced onion in 1 tablespoon of olive oil until the meat is no longer pink and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break up the beef as it cooks for even browning.

Add 2 cloves of minced garlic, 2 teaspoons of dried Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon of dill, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper. Stir and cook for 30 seconds, allowing the spices to become fragrant.
Stir in 24 ounces of marinara sauce, 1 can (14 ounces) of diced tomatoes with juice, and 2 cups of cooked rice. Mix well and continue cooking until warmed through, about 3-5 minutes.

In a large pot, cook 6 cups of roughly chopped cabbage with 2 tablespoons of butter over high heat until the cabbage is barely wilted and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
To assemble the casserole, layer half of the cooked cabbage in the bottom of the casserole dish. Then, evenly layer half of the beef mixture on top of the cabbage, followed by half of the 2 cups of shredded Colby Jack cheese.
Repeat the layers one more time, finishing with the remaining cheese on top of the casserole.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor, and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cheesy Beef and Cabbage Casserole

This casserole is delicious on its own, but there are many ways to elevate your meal. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a fun twist, consider adding a layer of cooked bacon for extra flavor or topping it with breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch. You can also customize this dish by incorporating other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Beef and Cabbage Casserole

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of Colby Jack cheese?
You can substitute with cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese. Just ensure it’s a cheese that melts well!

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories per Serving: 380
Servings: 8