Cabbage Beef Bake

Cabbage Beef Bake is a delicious, one-dish meal that combines lean ground beef, tender cabbage, and savory marinara sauce with cooked rice and melty cheese for a satisfying, wholesome dinner. This casserole-style dish brings together familiar ingredients in a hearty bake that’s perfect for family meals or casual gatherings. The cabbage adds a nutritious, slightly sweet crunch that balances the rich beef and tomato flavors, while the Colby Jack cheese melts beautifully to create a comforting, cheesy topping.

What makes this recipe so special is how it layers textures and flavors into a simple yet elegant bake. The Italian and dill seasonings add depth and aroma, enhancing the marinara and diced tomatoes’ freshness. Using cooked rice makes this dish filling without being heavy, and the combination of ingredients comes together in the oven to develop a deliciously cohesive meal.

Perfect for colder evenings or anytime you crave a cozy, homemade casserole, the Cabbage Beef Bake is a nutritious and flavorful way to enjoy ground beef with a twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. A complete meal in one hearty, baked casserole.
2. Combines tender cabbage with savory ground beef and tomato sauce.
3. Comforting cheesy topping with Colby Jack cheese.
4. Nutritious and filling with the addition of cooked rice.
5. Easy to customize and prepare ahead of time.

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Ingredients

• Lean ground beef
• Olive oil
• Minced onion
• Minced garlic
• Dried Italian seasoning
• Dill
• Salt
• Pepper
• Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• Diced tomatoes with juice (canned)
• Cooked rice
• Butter
• Roughly chopped cabbage
• Shredded Colby Jack cheese

Variations

• Swap Colby Jack with mozzarella or cheddar cheese for different flavors.
• Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
• Use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free version.
• Season with fresh herbs like basil or parsley instead of dried Italian seasoning.
• Incorporate a bit of crushed red pepper for some heat.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Season

Add minced onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in Italian seasoning, dill, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Add Tomato Sauces

Pour in marinara sauce and diced tomatoes with juice. Stir to combine and simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare Cabbage and Rice Mixture

In a separate pan, melt butter and sauté chopped cabbage until slightly tender, about 5 minutes. Combine cooked rice with the sautéed cabbage.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

In a large baking dish, layer half of the cabbage and rice mixture. Top with half of the meat sauce, then repeat with remaining cabbage and rice and meat sauce.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve

Let the bake rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Cook rice ahead of time or use leftover rice for convenience.
• Sauté cabbage until just tender to avoid sogginess in the bake.
• Use lean ground beef to reduce fat and grease.
• Stir the sauce occasionally as it simmers to prevent burning.
• Let the dish rest briefly after baking to set layers for easier slicing.

How to Serve

Serve Cabbage Beef Bake hot as a satisfying main dish. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. For added texture, offer crusty bread or garlic bread on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual servings.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cabbage?

Yes, green or Savoy cabbage works well; adjust cooking time as needed.

2. Is it necessary to sauté the cabbage first?

Sautéing softens the cabbage and reduces moisture, preventing a soggy bake.

3. Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken?

Yes, substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

4. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but cook the brown rice fully before assembling, as it takes longer to cook.

5. How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is mild, but you can add crushed red pepper for heat.

6. Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, assemble ahead and refrigerate before baking.

7. What can I substitute for Colby Jack cheese?

Mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of cheeses work well.

8. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be added for variety.

9. How do I prevent the bake from being watery?

Cook cabbage until tender but not mushy, and drain excess liquid from tomatoes if needed.

10. What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven covered with foil or in the microwave until hot throughout.

Conclusion

Cabbage Beef Bake is a comforting, hearty casserole that brings together simple, wholesome ingredients into a flavorful, cheesy dish. Easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a family, it’s a nutritious twist on classic beef casseroles with the addition of fresh cabbage and rice. This dish makes weeknight dinners satisfying and convenient, while offering rich, balanced flavors everyone will enjoy.

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