Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole
This hearty ground beef and cabbage casserole is a comforting, one-dish meal that brings together tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, and creamy melted cheese. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying that comes together in one pan and requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes, 14.5 ounces
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the onion and garlic, breaking it apart as it cooks, about 8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, beef broth, rice, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a buttered 9 by 13 inch casserole dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes until the cheese melts and the top is golden.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Practical Tips
Make it ahead: You can prepare this casserole the night before and refrigerate it, then bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Drain the beef properly: After browning the ground beef, make sure to drain off excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
Customize your cheese: Feel free to use a different cheese like mozzarella or a blend if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 350-degree oven until warmed through, covering with foil to prevent the top from drying out.
Common Questions
Can I use cooked rice instead of uncooked? Yes, you can use cooked rice, but reduce the beef broth to 1 cup to avoid a watery casserole.
What if I don’t have beef broth? You can substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth as an alternative.
How many servings does this make? This casserole typically serves 6 to 8 people as a main dish.