Description: This Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy sauce, all topped with a generous layer of melted cheese. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Preparation:
step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the bottom and make it easier to serve.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Olive oil adds a subtle richness to the dish, but you can also use other cooking oils like vegetable oil or canola oil if preferred. Ensure the skillet is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients.
Step 3: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning. The aroma of sautéed onion and garlic is the foundation of many great dishes, and it adds depth of flavor to this casserole.
Step 4: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula, until it is browned. Drain any excess fat from the skillet after the beef is cooked to avoid a greasy casserole. Removing the excess fat ensures a better texture and flavor.
Step 5: Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook until it begins to soften, about 5-7 minutes. This step allows the cabbage to wilt slightly and absorb some of the flavors from the beef, onion, and garlic. Stir the cabbage occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly.
Step 6: Pour in the heavy cream, then add the paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients evenly. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The heavy cream creates a luscious and creamy sauce that coats the cabbage and beef beautifully.
Step 7: Transfer the mixture to the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This ensures that the casserole bakes uniformly.
Step 8: Top the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese, covering the entire surface. Then, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the cheddar cheese. The combination of cheddar and Parmesan creates a flavorful and golden-brown crust.
Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The cheese should be melted and slightly browned, indicating that the casserole is heated through.
Step 10: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for added visual appeal, if desired.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is a winning combination of flavors and textures that makes it an instant family favorite. The creamy sauce envelops tender cabbage and savory ground beef, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables! The casserole is also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different cheeses, spices, or even add in other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. The hearty and filling nature of the dish makes it a perfect choice for colder months, providing warmth and nourishment with every bite. It’s a delightful twist on traditional casseroles, offering a balanced and flavorful experience that will leave you craving more.
COOKING Rating
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main course with a side salad or crusty bread.
- Pair with steamed green beans or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor and presentation.
- For a lighter option, serve with a side of quinoa or brown rice.
Tips:
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some cooked bacon or crumbled sausage.
- A dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick.
- Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Use different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Colby Jack for a unique flavor profile.
- To prevent the cabbage from becoming too soft, don’t overcook it in the skillet.
- If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or milk, but the sauce may be less creamy.
- For a richer flavor, sauté the ground beef with a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
- Make ahead: Assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
35 minutes
Total Time:
50 minutes
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 360 per serving (approximate) Protein: 25g (approximate) Sodium: 500mg (approximate)
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Conclusion
The Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a truly delicious and satisfying meal. It’s a hearty dish that combines the comforting flavors of ground beef and creamy sauce with the often-underappreciated goodness of cabbage. The ease of preparation and the flexibility to customize it to your liking make it a recipe you’ll want to return to again and again. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy dish to share with family and friends, this casserole is sure to please. Embrace the simplicity and enjoy the delightful flavors of this classic comfort food.
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
Q1: Can I use frozen cabbage for this recipe?
A: While fresh cabbage is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen cabbage in a pinch. Make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the skillet. Frozen cabbage tends to be softer than fresh, so reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid it becoming mushy.
Q2: I don’t have heavy cream. What can I use as a substitute?
A: If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or whole milk as a substitute. However, the sauce may be less creamy and rich. For a slightly thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a quarter cup of cold milk and whisk it into the sauce while it simmers.
Q3: Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
A: Absolutely! This casserole is very versatile, and you can easily add other vegetables to it. Consider adding diced carrots, bell peppers, or celery along with the onion and garlic. You can also add mushrooms for a more earthy flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure all the vegetables are tender.
Q4: How can I make this casserole spicier?
A: If you like a little heat, there are several ways to add spice to this casserole. You can add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture, or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. You can also use a spicy sausage in place of the ground beef for an extra kick.
Q5: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, this casserole is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble it completely and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake it, simply take it out of the refrigerator and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is very cold.
